Gestalt Principle #3: Closure

Wow, three-dimensional closure? What more could you ask for?

What is it?

Closure is a Gestalt principle that describes a piece with a figure that is open or incomplete. However, the designer gives enough information to the viewer that allows him/her to mentally fill in the gaps of the figure. In this composition, closure is used to depict a cube with a square hole cut down the middle.

Composition Details

Even though the composition lacks the entire left side of the cube, along with the edges in the upper-right hand corner of the hole, the viewer is able to mentally fill in the gaps and perceive the entire image. This instance of closure also adds interest because it attempts to represent a three-dimensional object, as most instances of closure represent simple shapes, such as squares or triangles. Finally, by placing the cube figure in the center, the composition becomes visually balanced, making it more appealing to the viewer.