Principles of Design
Proportion
The relation of one object to another in size, amount, number or degree- scale.
Unity
A feeling that all of the parts are working together as a team- the quality of wholeness
Vertical Lines
Symbolize power
Texture
The element of art that refers to the surface quality or feel of an object- its smoothness, roughness.
Space
The empty or open area between, around, above, below and within objects.
Curved lines
give a warm feeling
Balance
principle of design referring to the way the elements are arranged to create a feeling of stability in a work- parts of equal visual weight.
Form
Any three dimensional object that can be measured by height, width and depth.
Emphasis
Area in a work of art that catches and holds the the viewers attention.
Value
An element of art that refers to the lightness or darkness of a color.
Color
Element of art produced when a wavelength of light strikes an object and reflects back to the eyes.
Horizontal Lines
Meaning Calm
Neutrals
Black, gray, brown, and white.
Diagonal Lines
Action, movement
Shape
A flat figure created when actual or implied lines surround a space- can be geometric or organic.
Contrast
A large difference between two things: for example rough and smooth or white and black.
Line
A mark with length and direction, created by a point that moves across a surface.
Rhythm
A visual tempo or beat- often described as alternating, regular, flowing, progressive or jazzy.
Movement
A way of combining visual elements to produce a sense of action- or implied motion.
Secondary colors
Orange, green, and purple.
Primary colors
colors The three basic colors that cannot be made by mixing colors
