Chinese Balance Meets Western Harmony: The Ratio 3/7 From the Book of Changes In Western Graphic Design

Abstract

The Book of Changes is an unique philosophical publication which contains Chinese wisdom and aesthetics of balance. Over the centuries, it has provided inspiration for many fields, including design. This thesis study first introduces the objective and significance for exploring the Book of Changes, and then reviews the existing theory for the ratio 3 to 7 from the Book of Changes. This study intends to show that the balanced and harmonious 3:7 ratio is one of the most crucial rules and principles used in Chinese painting, architecture and Chinese traditional dragon patterns. Finally, the work summarizes a recent discovery of the 3:7 ratio in Western graphic design in order to open up new possibilities, facilitate cultural fusion, and also to experiment with it to see if it could make better design.