Principles of ArtWays the elements of art can be

arranged to achieve effective art work.

Principles:

Emphasis, Movement,

Rhythm, Pattern, Contrast,

Balance,

Unity,

Elements:

Line, Color, Texture,

Value, Space,

Shape, Form

Emphasis:An area or element within the

artwork that draws attention and

becomes a focal point.

Jan Vermeer

Conan the

Conqueror

Frank

Frazetta

1967

Movement: the use of the elements of art to

lead the viewer’s eye through the

picture plane.

Edgar Degas

Edvard Munch

The Scream

1893

Rhythm:Combining elements to produce the

appearance of motion or repetition.

Thomas Hart Benton – The Twist, 1964

M.C. Escher

Vincent Van Gogh, Starry Night, 1889

Pattern:A repeated element of design.

Rene Magritte

Andy Warhol, Marilyn Monroe

Henri Matisse

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.

M. C.

Escher

Edward Hopper

Floriana Barbu

DiegoKoi

Balance:

The visual weight within

the picture plane; refers to

the equalization of

elements in a work of art.

Three Types of Balance

1. Symmetrical

• Formal

• Mirror image

• Imaginary line

down the middle or

horizontally creates

a visual balance.

2. Asymmetrical

• Informal

• Elements are placed

unevenly but still

achieve visually

balanced

unity/harmony.

Symmetrical Balance, (mirror image)

Taj Mahal

Edgar Degas

Asymmetrical

Balance

3. Radial Balance

Circular, design

starts from center

moving in an

outward direction.

Unity:The sense that the elements are

working together to achieve a

common result. Creates a sense of

"wholeness"- 1 element connects

everything in the work of art.

Piet Mondrian

Paul Cezanne