Symmetry and Asymmetry

What Is Symmetry?#

Look at a butterfly. Its wings look the same on both sides. Look at a snowflake. Its patterns repeat in every direction. These beautiful patterns are examples of symmetry — one of the most important concepts in both art and nature!

Defining Symmetry#

Symmetry occurs when one part of an image or object is the mirror image of another part. When something is symmetrical, it looks balanced and has a pleasing regularity.

Types of Symmetry#

1. Bilateral (Reflective) Symmetry

Bilateral symmetry means there is ONE line (called the line of symmetry or axis of symmetry) that divides an image into two identical halves that are mirror images of each other.

Examples in nature:

• Human body (left side mirrors right side)
• Butterfly wings
• Most animal faces
• Many flower petals
• Leaves

Examples in art and design:

• The Taj Mahal in India
• Many ancient Greek and Roman buildings
• Playing card designs
• Most flags have some form of symmetry

2. Radial Symmetry

Radial symmetry occurs when a design radiates outward from a central point, with multiple lines of symmetry all passing through the center. Rotating the image any equal fraction of a full turn produces the same image.

Examples in nature:

• Snowflakes (6-fold symmetry)
• Sunflowers and daisies
• Sea stars (starfish)
• Sand dollars
• Spider webs

Examples in art:

• Mandalas (intricate circular patterns from Hindu/Buddhist traditions)
• Rose windows in Gothic cathedrals
• Kaleidoscope patterns

Finding Symmetry#

You can find the line of symmetry by imagining (or actually) folding a shape. If the two halves line up perfectly, the shape is symmetrical!