Principles of Design
- Balance = arrangement of elements (symmetrical, assymetrical, radial)
- Emphasis = center of interest, element/s that catches viewers attention
- Movement = path the viewer's eyes take through a work
- Pattern = repeated use of an element
- Repetition = works with pattern using repeating elements to make an artwork active
- Proportion = how sizes relate to one another
- Rhythm = creates mood by use of elements
- Variety = differences that give interest [in scale, surface, line, value, shape]
- Contrast = degrees of difference; with color, black and white are highest degree of contrast
- Unity = oneness, togetherness
The understanding of the principles of design enhance our ability to create art objects with even more awareness and insight. While we can focus on one at a time (say, per project), others, as with elements of art, can and will appear together, in a work of art.
