The Principles of Design

Contrast

The arrangement of opposite elements in an artwork to create visual interest, excitement and drama.

Contrast of Texture

Contrast of Value

Contrast of Color

Contrast of Size

Variety

A principle of design concerned with the inclusion of difference in the elements of a composition to offset unity and add interest to an artwork.

Variety of Value

Variety of Color

Variety of Texture

Emphasis

A principle of design in which one element, or a combination of elements, create more attention than anything else in a composition. This dominant element is usually a focal point.

Emphasis of Size

Emphasis of Line

Emphasis of Color

Balance

A principle of design referring to the arrangement of visual elements to create stability in an artwork. There are 3 types of these arrangements: asymmetrical, symmetrical and radial.

Balance of Space

Balance of Value, Shape and Space

Type of Balance: Symmetrical Balance

(Also called “Formal Balance”)

This is when an artwork is “weighted” the same on both sides of the artwork

Type of Balance: Asymmetrical Balance

(Also called “Informal Balance”)

Elements are placed unevenly in an artwork, but balance each other out harmoniously.

Rhythm and Repetition

Using an element multiple times within the same artwork.

Repetition of Shape

Repetition of Line

Repetition of shape, space and color

Repetition of Texture, Shape and Space

Movement

Repetition of an element of art, or the use of a continuous element of art, to direct the viewer’s eye around the artwork.

Pattern

The repetition of an element, or combinations of element, in a recognizable organization.

Unity

A principle of design related to the sense of wholeness that results from using one of the elements similarly throughout the entire artwork.

Unity of Texture

Unity of Shape

Unity of Color