Elements of Arts and Principles of Arts

COR 012

Line

a continuous mark made on a surface by a moving point.

Hue

name of the color

Saturation

essence of the hue

Lightness/Value

darkness/brightness

Shape

A flat, enclosed area that has height and width; two-dimensional area with a defined boundary created by lines, colors, values, or textures.

Form

refers to a three-dimensional object that has depth, width, and height.

Texture

how a surface feels or appears to feel

Space

an element of art by which positive and negative areas, or a sense of depth achieved in a work of art.

Positive Space

a main subject, object or focal point inside a piece. It catches your eye first.

Negative Space

the empty area around and between the main subject of an artwork.

Rhythm

the repetition of elements

Balance

the distribution of visual weight in a composition. It makes an artwork feel stable and harmonious.

Proportion

relationship of size between parts of an artwork or between an object and its surroundings.

Variety

adds interest and excitement by combining different elements in a composition.

Movement

how an artist creates a sense of motion or leads the viewer’s eye through the artwork.

Unity

all parts of the artwork work together to create a sense of completeness or harmony.

Emphasis

used to highlight or draw attention to the most important part of the artwork.

Pattern

a repetition of elements like lines, shapes or colors in a predictable way.