Principles of Art: Description

Balance – the principle of organization that refers to arranging elements equally in a work of art.  There are two kinds of balance: Formal (also called symmetrical) and information (also called asymmetrical).

Contrast – a difference in value, color or texture that achieves emphasis or dominance.

Proportion - the comparison of elements one to another in terms of their properties of size, quality , and degree of emphasis.

Pattern – the repetitions of art elements or the combination of elements in an organized manner.

Rhythm – a principle of organization that indicates a type of movement in art or design, reinforced by repeated shapes, lines or color.

Emphasis – a means by which an artist uses contrasting colors, shapes, or value to draw attention to certain areas or objects in a work of art.

Unity – a principle of organization that relates to the sense of oneness or wholeness in a work of art.

Variety – is the principle of design that creates interest in an artwork by stressing the difference or contrast of the elements such as : line, shape, color or texture.