Repetition, variation and deviation in ordered visual structures. An examination of perceptual and aesthetic effects

Abstract

We explored perceptual and aesthetic effects of repetition, variation, and deviation in visual structures. Based on previous findings in aesthetics research, we hypothesized that non-obvious order or complex variations of shape or color stimulate perception and potentially evoke interest. People trained in design or fine arts created six sets of visual structures, each on a 6x6 grid by a) repetition of a module consisting of four dark-grey elements (two rectangles and two triangles), b) variation through systematic rotation of the module, and c) deviation from this ordered variation by altering one element of each module. Furthermore, they varied color by replacing one element in each module of each structure with a light-grey element. Another group rated these images block-wise in randomized order on liking, interest, powerfulness of affect, and obviousness of order on a 7-point-scale. In addition, we collected responses to an open question regarding the individual focus when rating powerfulness of affect and we asked for each person’s background and interest in art and design. Visual structures appeared most interesting and powerful to participants when they showed a systematic variation (b) compared to a repetition of the modules (a) or a deviation from order (c). Images gained higher liking ratings the more obviously ordered they appeared, whereas obviousness of order played a less clear role for powerfulness of affect and showed no significant effect on interest evaluations. Color variations had no overall positive aesthetic effect. In response to our open question, some participants reported that they experienced less powerfulness of affect when elements showed a simple order but also when they appeared to be arranged arbitrarily. Future studies could assess how intentional a structure appears; this could apply not only to ordered structures, but also to apparently deliberate deviations from order.

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