Elements and Principles of Art

line

a moving dot

shape

an enclosed line that is 2D

form

a 3D shape that has length, width, and depth

color

the hue, intensity, and value of something based on light

value

how light or dark a color is

texture

the feeling or appearance of a feeling of a substance

space

3D volume that can be empty or filled with objects

balance

the distribution of visual weight in a work of art

movement

used by artists to direct a viewers attention through a painting

rhythm

the repetition of visual movements

contrast

refers to differences in values, colors, textures, shapes, and other elements

emphasis

creates dominance in a work of art

pattern

planned or random repetitions to enhance surfaces of a work of art

unity

provides the cohesive quality that makes an artwork feel complete and finished