Module 8: The Principles of Design

Principles of Design

refer to the visual strategies used by artists, in conjunction with the visual elements of arts for expressive purposes.

1. balance

2. harmony

3. unity

4. proportion

5. contrast

6. variety

7. emphasis

8. rhythm and repetition

9. movement

10. pattern

Principles of design

Balance

Every element in a visual composition carries weight. The more an element is emphasized, the heavier it is. A designer’s goal is to balance the weight of each object on the canvas in order to create a feeling of balance for the viewer.

1. symmetrical

2. asymmetrical

3. radial

There are 3 types of Balance:

Symmetrical Balance

(Also called “Formal Balance”) This is when an artwork is “weighted” the same on both sides of the artwork

Asymmetrical Balance

(Also called “Informal Balance”) Elements are placed unevenly in an artwork, but balance each other out harmoniously.

Radial Symmetry

balance where all elements radiate out from a center point in a circular fashion to all four quadrants of the shape’s constraining plane.

harmony

It can be described as sameness, the belonging of one thing with another.

unity

A principle of design related to the sense of wholeness that results from using one of the elements similarly throughout the entire artwork.

proportion

refers to the relationship of the size of one element when compared to another

contrast

The arrangement of opposite elements in an artwork to create visual interest, excitement and drama.

variety

A principle of design concerned with the inclusion of difference in the elements of a composition to offset unity and add interest to an artwork.

emphasis

A principle of design in which one element, or a combination of elements, create more attention than anything else in a composition. This dominant element is usually a focal point.

rhythm and repetition

Using an element multiple times within the same artwork.

movement

Repetition of an element of art, or the use of a continuous element of art, to direct the viewer’s eye around the artwork.

pattern

The repetition of an element, or combinations of element, in a recognizable organization.