Art Encyclopedia - Axis

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Axis
Any symmetrical or near-symmetrical volume has one or more axes which can be roughly described as imaginary centre lines to which all parts of the volume may be related. Each volume of a sculptural composition enters into axial relations with the others, and the direction of the axis of each volume determines the direction of the volume. The concept of an axis applies not only to single volumes but also to symmetrical or near-symmetrical groups of volumes. The movements of the volumes of the figure in relation to the verticals may tilt out of the vertical in any direction or they may rotate around the axis.