Principles of Art

1. Ms. Crump - ART Principles of Art

2. What are Art Principles? • Rules for how art elements are organized to create unity in an artwork • They are: • Balance • Variety • Harmony • Emphasis • Proportion • Pattern/Rhythm • Movement

3. Balance • Arranging art elements in an artwork so no one part of that work overpowers, or seems heavier than, any other part • Three Types: • Formal Balance • Informal Balance • Radial Balance

4. Formal Balance • Also known as symmetrical balance • The two halves of the picture “mirror” or closely resemble each other

5. Informal Balance • Also known as asymmetrical balance • Different elements appear to have equal weight

6. Radial Balance • Have elements or objects positioned around a central point or hub

7. Variety • Combing art elements with slight changes to increase visual interest

8. Harmony • Combining similar art elements to create a pleasing appearance • Can be accomplished by using repetition and gradual changes

9. Emphasis • Making an element or object in a work stand out

10. Proportion • The relationship of certain elements to the whole and to each other • Used to help create emphasis • Used with size (one shape being much larger than the others) • Used with color (one shape a different color than the rest)

11. Pattern/Rhythm • Achieved through the repetition of colors, lines, shapes, and/or textures • Makes work seem active or suggests vibration

12. Movement • Creating the look and feeling of action to guide the viewer’s eye throughout a work of art

13. Unity • A look and feel of oneness or completeness in a work of art • “Wholeness” • Achieved when elements and principles are skillfully combined • Harmony and pattern can help to accomplish this