Elements and Principles

Contrast

A large difference between two things: for example, rough and smooth or white and black.

Shape

A flat figure created when actual or implied lines surround a space- can be geometric or organic.

Symmetrical

Formal balance, where visual weight is identical on both sides of a composition, is also called:

Cylinder, cubes, spheres, and cones.

Forms are three-dimensional. They have height, width, and thickness. These are four common forms.

Emphasis

Points of interest that pull the viewer's eye to the important parts of the work.

Unity

The feeling of wholeness or that all parts belong together. This is obtained by using similar elements of art. All parts of a design are working together as a team to create a harmonious, complete whole.

Variety

The use of different line, shapes, textures, colors, and other elements of design to create interest in a work of art.

Color

This element has three properties: Hue, intensity, and value.

Line

This element refers to a continuous mark made on a surface.

Balance

This term describes how artists create visual weight in an image. It can be symmetrical (formal) or asymmetrical(informal).

Asymmetrical

A type of balance in which both sides of a composition are balanced yet different.

Movement/Rhythm

A way of combining visual elements to move the viewer's eye through actual or implied motion. Sometimes illustrates a visual tempo or beat.

Value

An element of art that refers to the lightness or darkness of a color.

Texture

The art element that refers to the sense of touch. It can be real or implied.

Space

The empty or open area between, around, above, below, and within objects.