The Elements of Design represent the basic vocabulary, or building blocks, of the language of Visual Arts.
Line
Shape / Form
Color
Texture
Value
Space
The Principles of Design help you compose a work of art by guiding your use of the basic vocabulary, or Elements.
Balance - The artist arranges the elements, based on visual weight, in a symmetrical or asymmetrical manner to create a sense of equilibrium.
Proportion - The relationship or ratio of parts to the whole.
Scale - The relative size of objects within the picture plane. (In 3D Design, Scale has to do with the relative size of the viewer to the work of art.
Harmony - Within the picture plane, the artist blends the various Elements together to create a unified image.
Variety - When the artist uses the Elements to create diversity.
Movement - When the artist arranges the Elements to create a sense of action or motion.
Repetition - When the artist duplicates an Element or group of Elements to create patterns within the picture plane.
Rhythm - The artist creates a visual cadence by the arrangement and placement of Elements.
Emphasis or Focus - How the artist arranges the Elements to attract the viewer's attention.
Direction - The visual path the artist encourages the viewer to take through the picture plane.
Unity - The overall synthesis of all the Principles of Design.
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