Elements of Design

A basic symbol of communication an artist uses to create a work of art. Those elements can alone communicate ideas, thoughts, or feelings.

Line - The path of a dot through space. Describes an edge of a form or shape.
Shape - A 2D area enclosedby a line.
Form - A 3D object having height, width, depth.
Space - Organized elements in composition. The distance in, around or between object.
Texture - Actual or simulated.
Colour - Different wave lengths of light.


Principals of Design

They are guidelines that govern the way "elements" go together.

Balance - Symmetrical (formal), radial, asymmetrical (informal)
             - Arranging the elements so that no one part of the work overpowers or seems heavier than the others.
Variety - Combining one or more elements to make intrest.
Harmony - The blending, arranging of "elements" in a pleasent way.
              - Dominance.
Proportion - It's how parts of a work relates to each other in the work.
Movement - The principal of art and design that leads the viewer to a sense of action, in a work or it can be a path the viewers eye follows
         throughout a work.
Rythm - The repasting of an "element" to make or seem active.
Unity/Composition - The arrangements of the "elements" and principals within a work
                         - To create a feeling of completeness