Elements of Art
TEXTURE: Texture helps to emphasize the features and details in a photograph. By capturing "texture" of objects being photographed, you can create form.
FORM: form is a three-dimensional geometrical figure.
SHAPE: shape is an enclosed space, the boundaries of which are defined by other elements of art.
LINE: a continuous mark, made on a surface, by a moving point.
VALUE: value refers to the lightness or darkness of a color. Value becomes critical in a work which has no colors other than black, white, and a gray scale.
COLOR: Color is the element of art that is produced when light, striking an object, is reflected back to the eye.
Principles of Design
PATTERNS: Patterns can be found everywhere, in nature and manmade constructions. They are made up of repeated objects, shapes or colors and whether they are random or ordered can be very pleasing to the eye.
SPACE: space refers to distances or areas around, between or within components of a piece. Space can be positive (white or light) or negative (black or dark), open or closed, shallow or deep and two-dimensional or three-dimensional.
BALANCE: Balance is the concept of visual equilibrium, and relates to our physical sense of balance. It is a reconciliation of opposing forces in a composition that results in visual stability.
Emphasis is the part of the design that catches the viewer’s attention. Usually the
artist will make one area stand out by contrasting it with other areas. The area could
be different in size, color, texture, shape, etc.
Repetition works with pattern to make the work of art seem active. The repetition
of elements of design creates unity within the work of art.
Movement is the path the viewer’s eye takes through the work of art, often to focal
areas. Such movement can be directed along lines, edges, shape, and color within the
work of art.
Pattern: is the repeating of an object or symbol all over the work of art.
Proportion: is the feeling of unity created when all parts (sizes, amounts, or number)
relate well with each other. When drawing the human figure, proportion can refer
to the size of the head compared to the rest of the body.
Rhythm: is created when one or more elements of design are used repeatedly to
create a feeling of organized movement. Rhythm creates a mood like music or
dancing. To keep rhythm exciting and active, variety is essential.
Variety: is the use of several elements of design to hold the viewer’s attention and
to guide the viewer’s eye through and around the work of art.
Unity: is the feeling of harmony between all parts of the work of art, which creates
a sense of completeness.