Principles of Design

Design Principles

Rules explaining how artists arrange and use the elements of art to create visually engaging and well-organised artworks.

Contrast

Using opposing elements (like light/dark or rough/smooth) to create visual interest, variety, and drama.

Focal Point / Emphasis

The part of an artwork that catches your eye first, created through contrast, placement, detail, or isolation.

Balance

The distribution of visual weight to make a composition feel stable; can be symmetrical, asymmetrical, or radial.

Pattern

The repetition of lines, shapes, colours, or motifs to create a sense of order, rhythm, and decoration.

Proportion and Scale

Proportion describes the size of one part compared to another, while scale refers to the overall size of an object or artwork compared to real life.

Perspective (Depth)

A drawing technique making objects on a flat surface look three-dimensional (includes linear perspective with one or two vanishing points).

Rhythm / Movement

Using repeating shapes, lines, or colours to guide the viewer's eye through the artwork and create a sense of action or tempo.

Unity / Harmony

When all parts of an artwork work together to create a complete, coherent whole where elements appear connected throughout.