Juxtaposition- the bringing together of dissimilar things to create a contrast between them. The placement of two contrasting items to exaggerate their differences.
One definition of Design is "To bring elements together to create an effect"
In the designer's toolbox juxtaposition is one of the first tools to be used: To bring two things together automatically invites comparison- it's how our minds work. Juxtaposition works by putting two dissimilar or contrasting things next to each other to accentuate their different qualities. This may be subtle or extreme, It is one of the easiest ways of creating an exaggerated effect.
For instance juxtaposing rough things with smooth will make the rough things seem rougher and the smooth things seem smoother. The same goes for other oposites: sharp objects with soft things,highly patterned with very plain, primary colour with complimentary opposite colours, loud with soft, warm with cold, tall with short, organic with machinery.
The juxtaposition of two or more shapes also changes the way we fundamentally perceive those shapes- there are many optical illusions that clearly demonstrate this, and as designers we need to be aware of how to use this but also be aware of how it might work against us.
Juxtaposition works in ALL creative endeavours- graphic design, sculpture, product design, theatre, storytelling television, film, music, comedy (the best jokes work like this- try it out!), painting, architecture, dance, ballet, shoe design, food, web design, fashion… everything.
So today in your creative output how could could you incorporate juxtaposition to highlight or exaggerate?