ELEMENTS OF DESIGN

LINE

A line is a set of connected points that can be drawn carefully with a ruler or expressively by hand. Lines can be used to show direction, create expression and value, indicate motion (gesture), or show the outside edge of something (contour).

SHAPE

A shape is a line or series of connected lines that join at the ends to create a closed area. Shapes may be geometric (circle, square, etc.) or organic (free-form).

FORM

A form is the term used to refer to a shape that is 3-dimensional (has depth or thickness), rather than just being flat.

SPACE

Space is the area defined by an object (positive space) or the empty area that is found between objects (negative space).

VALUE

Value (or tone) refers to the degree of lightness or darkness that something is perceived. The relationship between light and dark is called contrast.

COLOUR

Colour (or hue) is the light we see reflected off an object. Each colour has a specific wavelength and its full spectrum can be seen in a rainbow.

TEXTURE

Texture is the look or feel of a surface. The illusion of texture can be created in art through drawing and painting.

PRINCIPLES OF DESIGN

RHYTHM

Rhythm is the repetition of a visual element in a design that produces unity. Rhythm also can be used to create pattern.

MOVEMENT

The illusion of movement can be achieved in art be using rhythm. Movement can also be implied by drawing objects of-balance.

BALANCE

Balance is a sense of equilibrium on art. Balance may be formal (symmetrical) or informal (asymmetrical).

PROPORTION

Proportion refers to the size of objects in relation to other objects. Proportion should be handled correctly in order to create a pleasing image.

VARIETY

Variety means difference. Variety helps add interest and excitement to your design

EMPASIS

Emphasis is used by artists in order to get viewers to focus on a particular part of an image. A centre of interest is created by manipulating the different elements of a design or by adjusting the placement or size of objects.

UNITY

Unity or harmony in a design means that all of its components work well together. This can be achieved in many ways (e.g. repetition, limited colour scheme).