Elements
Line- a series of connected points.
Shape- a closed area bounded by lines. When a line crosses itself or intersects with other lines to enclose a space it creates a shape. Shape is two-dimensional; it has height and width but no depth.
Form- a two-dimensional shape becomes three-dimensional it is no longer called a shape but aform. Shading a circle (2-D) can turn it into a sphere (3-D).
Value- the range of lightness and darkness within a picture. Value is created by a light sourcethat shines on an object creating highlights and shadows.
Color- the property of objects that, depending on the light they reflect, is perceived as red,blue, yellow or other hues.
Texture- surface quality. It is the degree of roughness or smoothness in objects.
Space- an illusion created in a 2-dimensional work of art. Lines and shapes are organized to help a viewer see depth.
Principles
Balance- equal visual emphasis on different sides of the work. Balance can be symmetrical, asymmetrical, or radial.
Unity- the elements look like they belong together. The artist arranges separate elements to create a whole.
Emphasis- the focal point is the center of interest or emphasis. Emphasis can be created by using bright color, contrast, highlighting certain shapes and careful placement of an element.
Contrast- created by placing very different things next to one another. Contrast can define the focal point. Create contrast by using light next to dark and muted, soft color next to bold color.
Rhythm- created with repetition. The reuse of a design element can lead a viewer to a focal point. Repetition can also control the direction and speed of a viewer’s attention.
Movement- How your eye moves or tracks through a piece of art and the way of combining visual elements to produce a sense of action – or implied motion.
Pattern- How your eye moves or tracks through a piece of art and the way of combining visual elements to produce a sense of action – or implied motion.