Principles of Design

Definition

The Principles of Design are the rules that govern how we use the Elements of Art.

PRINCIPLES OF DESIGN

Balance Rhythm &

Movement Pattern

Proportion Unity Variety Emphasis

Balance is a principle of design referring to how the elements are

arranged.

BALANCE

Expressive Qualities of Balance

The type of balance an artist uses to organize a work of art affects the feeling expressed by that work. Artists choose balance based on the feeling they wish to convey.

There are 4 types of balance: symmetrical approximately symmetrical asymmetrical radial

TYPES OF BALANCE

SYMMETRICAL BALANCEBoth sides of the artwork are exactly alike

.

Lincoln Memorial

Approximate symmetry

Both sides are almost the same

ASYMMETRICAL BALANCE

Balance of unlike objects

RADIAL BALANCE

A balance in which lines or shapes spread out from a center point.

Pattern, Rhythm, and Movement PATTERN is when the elements of art are

repeated in a special way.

RHYTHM is created by repeating element(s) in a pattern to create a look and feel of movement.

MOVEMENT is combining elements of art to produce the look of action This principle makes the viewer’s eyes move all around the artwork.

Vincent van Gogh (Dutch, 1853-1890), The Starry Night, 1889 (Saint-Rémy), oil on canvas, 29 x 36 inches Museum of Modern Art, New York

Proportion PROPORTION is concerned with the size

relationship of one part to another or one object to another (a ratio).

VarietyVariety is

combining different elements of art to create difference or contrast.

Emphasis

Emphasis is how the artist arranges the elements to catch a viewer’s attention. It often creates a focal point.

Unity

Unity is the feeling that all parts of a design are working together as a team.