Principles of Understanding Artistic Design and Composition Flashcards
fundamental principle of art
harmony, variety,
balance, movement, emphasis, proportion, and rhythm
When all of the elements of art interact well in an artwork,
visual harmony is attained. This is accomplished by using similar types of geometric shapes,
lines or colors within a work of art to create a unified composition. Likewise, using various cool
or warm colors would help to produce a harmonious work of art
harmony
It is accomplished by using differing colors, lines, and shapes within an artwork to make
key areas stand out. Artists can use this idea to direct a viewer’s eye to a place within the art that
he or she wants to emphasize.
variety
It refers to the symmetry of opposing visual forces. It is created
in a work of art when colors, forms, shapes or textures are combined harmoniously
balance
It is the way that an eye moves throughout a work of art. In this
work of art, our eye moves up through the pattern in the rippling surface of the water to the two
paddlers. An artist creates a visual movement to drive the eye to the focal point of the artwork.
movement
It refers to the need for an artist to create a focal point within an
artwork. This artistic point is an essential part of a work of art, and the viewer’s eye should
drawn to that area.
emphasis
This principle is created when the sizes of elements in an artwork
art are combined harmoniously. The artist usually tries to make all of the parts in a composition
relate logically to each other to depict the human form within the proper proportion.
proportion
It refers to the use of visual pattern within a work of art. Models
within an artwork are created by repeating certain colors, line or shapes in specific areas. It can
also be used to form a variety of texture within a work of art.
rhythm