Elements of Design

Line

the visual path that

enables the eye to
move within the
piece
 Shape

areas defined by
edges within the
piece, whether
geometric or
organic
 Color

hues with their

various values and
intensities
 Texture

surface qualities
which translate into
tactile illusions
 Value

Lightness and
darkness are
known as value in
visual art
 Form

Form suggests a
three-dimensional
object in space. It
is also described as
the physical nature
of the artwork,
such as sculptures.
 Space

Space is the area

around, above, and
within an object.
Principles of
Design
 Unity

The arrangement of
elements to give
the viewer the
feeling that all the
parts of the piece
form a coherent
whole.
 Balance

A feeling of
balance results
when the elements
of design are
arranged to create
the impression of
equality.
 Hierarchy

A good design
contains elements
that lead the
reader through
each element in
order of its
significance.
 Scale/Proportion

The relationship
between objects
with respect to size,
number, and so on,
including the
relation between
parts of a whole.
 Dominance/
Emphasis

Special attention/
importance given
to one part of a
work of art.
 Similarity and
contrast

The arrangement of
different elements
in order to
highlight their
difference or
create visual
interest.