Components of Art

Composition

The deliberate organisation and spatial arrangement of formal elements within the artwork to control visual hierarchy and viewer engagement.

Asymmetrical Balance

Placing the main subject slightly off-centre to balance visual weights unevenly, creating active visual interest.

Movement

The path the viewer’s eye takes through an artwork, often guided by elements like a winding river or lines.

Rhythm

Repeating shapes or colours with gradual variations (such as elements increasing in size) across the composition.

Balance

The visual equilibrium of an artwork. Disrupting it can make a painting feel “uneven” or uncomfortable.

Contrast (in tone)

A main element of strongly against a dark background to create focus and visual separation.