Elements and Principles of Art/Design

It is a mark with greater length than width.

It can be horizontal, vertical, or diagonal; straight or curved; thick or thin.

• Shape

• Balance

• Line

• Color

It is a closed line. It can be geometric, like squares and circles; or organic; like free-form or natural. These are flat and can express length and width.

• Color

• Texture

• Line

• Shape

It is light reflected off of objects.

• Line

• Pattern

• Color

• Shape

It is the area between and around objects.

• Space

• Balance

• Harmony

• Shape

It is the surface quality that can be seen and felt. It can be rough or smooth, soft or hard

• Texture

• Shape

• Line

• Color

It is the visually satisfying effect of combining similar, related elements.

• Harmony

• Balance

• Contrast

It is a large difference between two things to create interest and tension.

• Balance

• Contrast

• Pattern

The focal point of an image, or when one area or thing stand out the most.

• Balance

• Shape

• Emphasis

The uniform repetition of any of the elements of art or any combination thereof.

• Pattern

• Color

• Shape

Refers to the visual weight of the elements of the composition. It is a sense that painting feels stable and “feels right”.

• Contrast

• Harmony

• Balance