Principles of Art

Principles of Arts

1.       Rhythm – A principle of design that indicates movement, created by the careful placement of repeated elements in a work of art to cause a visual tempo or beat.

2.       Balance – A way of combining elements to add feeling of equilibrium or stability to a work of art. Major types are symmetrical and asymmetrical.

 

3.       Emphasis (Contrast) - A way of combining elements to stress the differences between those elements.

 

4.       Proportion – A principle of design that refers the relationship of certain elements to the whole and to each other.

 

5.       Gradation – A way of combining elements by using a series of gradual changes in those elements. (Examples: Large shapes to small shapes, dark hue to light hue, etc.)

 

6.       Harmony – A way of combining similar elements in an artwork to accent their similarities (achieved through the use of repetitions and subtle gradual changes).

 

7.       Variety – A principle of art concerned with diversity or contrast. Variety is achieved by using different shapes, sizes, or by using colors in a work of art.

 

8.       Movement – Designed to create the look and feeling of action to guide the viewer’s throughout the work of art.