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  1. Contrast can be defined as the juxtaposition of two elements that are different, but which work together to create a balanced whole. In art, contrast is used to direct the viewer’s attention to a particular area of the painting, and can be used to create a variety of different effects.

    • Balance. Balance refers to the distribution of visual weight in a composition. Balance can be symmetrical, where both sides of a composition are even, or asymmetrical, where you can create balance through contrasting elements of different sizes or positions.
    • Contrast. Contrast in art refers to the grouping of opposite elements near each other to highlight their differences. When used properly, contrast can help accentuate the difference between the elements in a piece, it can be used applying light versus dark, rough versus smooth, or large versus small.
    • Emphasis. Emphasis refers to the design and composition strategy of drawing the viewer’s attention to a particular element or area within an artwork. It’s all about creating a focal point or center of attention and can be achieved by using size, color, texture, or composition to give a sense of spotlight to a certain element in your work.
    • Movement. Movement is a fundamental art principle that refers to how the artist guides the viewer’s eye through the canvas. Be it using objects in motion or using composition, movement is a key principle in different art forms but plays a vital role in storytelling and animation.
    • Line. Line is one of the most basic elements of art and it can be used to create many different effects. Lines can be straight, curved, angular or organic and they may be thick or thin.
    • Shape. Shapes are two-dimensional forms that are defined by an outline or border. They can be geometric such as squares, circles and triangles, or organic like free-form shapes.
    • Value. Value is the lightness or darkness of a colour used in an artwork. Light and dark values create depth and perspective and also emphasise certain elements within a composition.
    • Colour. Colour is an important element of art which helps to bring life to an artwork. Colour is the way in which humans perceive wavelengths of light and is further categorised by hue, saturation and luminance.
    • Line. Line is the most basic element of art. Without line the other elements couldn’t exist so let's start here and then we will gradually go more advanced.
    • Shape. When a line meets up to enclose a space, a shape is formed. Shapes can be: Geometric or organic. Shapes are 2-dimensional, i.e. they have height and width but no depth e.g.
    • Form. Form is the next step up from shape as we now add depth to it to create a three dimensional form. A square (shape) vs a cube, a triangle vs a cone etc.
    • Space. Space is what lies between, around or within an object. To show space in a 2-dimensional medium the artist must use techniques to create the illusion of space between items that are in reality on a flat surface.
    • Marion Boddy-Evans
    • Unity: Do all the parts of the composition feel as if they belong together, or does something feel stuck on, awkwardly out of place?
    • Balance: Balance is the sense that the painting "feels right" and not heavier on one side. Having a symmetrical arrangement adds a sense of calm, whereas an asymmetrical arrangement creates a more dynamic feeling.
    • Movement: There are many ways to give a sense of movement in a painting, such as the arrangement of objects, the position of figures, the flow of a river.
    • Rhythm: In much the same way music does, a piece of art can have a rhythm or underlying beat that leads your eye to view the artwork at a certain pace.
  2. Nov 7, 2023 · Understanding the 7 elements and principles is akin to unlocking a treasure chest of creativity. From the foundational elements of line and shape to the guiding principles of balance and movement, these concepts shape and enrich our perception of art.

  3. The Elements of Art. Line: A path either represented or implied. Shape: The property of a two-dimensional form, usually defined by a line around it. Color: The light reflecting off objects, divided into hue, value and intensity. Space: Depth, real or represented, as well as the general area within a work.