Art Isp

The Elements of Art

Line: An element of art that can be 2D like pencil on paper or 3D like a wire sculpture, or implied. This is a space that is “open” and the ends of the lines do not meet.

Shape: An element of design that is an enclosed space (the line ends meet). This is 2D. Shapes can be geometric or organic.

Texture: An element of design that refers to the quality of a surface, both tactile (touch) and visual (see).

Value: An element of design that describes the lightness and darkness of a tone.

Depth/Space: An element of design that gives the illusion of space. The art work looks 3D, but is really on a flat surface. This is also called perspective.

Colour: An element of design that identifies natural and manufactured things as red, yellow, etc.

Form: An element of design that describes the compositional style (the way the pieces are put together), the design, and arrangement of the artwork. Often “form” is linked and contrasted to “function”.

The Principles of Art

Balance: -Symmetrical: both sides are identical.

-Asymmetrical: both sides are very different, but it has a sense of balance.

-Radial: the balance comes from the center of the work.

Pattern: A principle of design that is the created by a repetition of lines, shapes, ect. (like wallpaper).

Emphasis: A principle of design that draws attention to an area in an artwork. You can use any of the elements of design to create emphasis.

Proportion: A principle of design that shows a size comparison between elements in an artwork.

Contrast: A principle of design that shows an opposite to create interest for the viewer. For example, an artist can show an opposite colour or texture to show contrast.

Variety: A principle of design that occurs when an artwork has a quality of being diverse or incorporating a number of different or contrasting elements. Variety can be achieved by opposing, changing, elaborating, or contrasting the elements of design.

Rhythm: A principle of design that happens when elements within a composition are repeated. (more complex than pattern)

Unity: Gives a sense that all the elements that are used belong together. The work of art appears complete / finished. Unity is created by consistency (sticky to the same thing). An artist can use consistent colours, lines, brush strokes, shapes,