Principles of
Design
Balance
Definition: A feeling of
visual equality in shape, form, value, color, etc. Balance can be symmetrical or evenly balanced or
asymmetrical and un-evenly balanced. Objects, values, colors, textures,
shapes, forms, etc., can be used in creating a balance in a composition.
Contrast
Definition: Contrast refers to the
arrangement of opposite elements (light vs. dark colors, rough vs. smooth textures,
large vs. small shapes, etc.) in a piece so as to create visual interest,
excitement and drama.
Emphasis
Definition: Emphasis(center of
interest) is an area that first attracts attention in a composition. This area
is more important when compared to the other objects or elements in a
composition. This can be by contrast of values, more colors, and
placement in the format.
Proportion
Definition: Proportion refers to
the relative size and scale of the various elements in a design. The issue is
the relationship between
objects, or parts, of a whole.
RepetitionDefinition:
Repeating visual elements such as line, color, shape, texture, value or image
tends to unify the total effect of a work of art as well as create rhythm.
Repetition can take the form of an exact duplication (pattern), a near
duplication, or duplication with variety.
Rhythm
and Movement
Definition of
Rhythm: A movement in which some elements recurs
regularly. Like a dance it will have a flow of objects that will seem to
be like the beat of music.
Definition of Movement: is the path the viewer’s eye takes through the artwork, often to a focal area. It can be directed along lines, edges, shapes and color. Movement is closely tied to rhythm.
Definition of Movement: is the path the viewer’s eye takes through the artwork, often to a focal area. It can be directed along lines, edges, shapes and color. Movement is closely tied to rhythm.
Unity
Definition of
Unity:Unity occurs when all of the elements of a piece combine
to make a balanced, harmonious, complete whole. Unity is another of
those hard-to-describe art terms but, when it's present, your eye and brain are
pleased to see it.
Harmony
Harmony
Definition of
Harmony: Harmony brings together a composition with similar
units. If your composition was using wavy lines and organic shapes you
would stay with those types of lines and not put in just one geometric shape.
(Notice how similar Harmony is to Unity)
Variety
Definition: Variety refers to a way of combining elements of art in involved ways
to achieve intricate and complex relationships. Variety is often obtained
through the use of diversity and change by artists who wish to increase the
visual interest of their work. An artwork which makes use of many different
hues, values, lines, textures, and shapes would reflect the artist's desire for
variety. Unity is the principle which is its variety's opposite; but when there
is too little variety, the result is monotony.
