Elements of Design

The elements and principles of design are the building blocks used to create a work of art. The Elements of Design can be thought of as the things that make up a painting, drawing, design etc. Good or bad - all paintings will contain most of if not all, the seven elements of design.

THE ELEMENTS OF DESIGN

LINE

Line can be considered in two ways. The linear marks made with a pen or brush, or the edge created when two shapes meet.

SHAPE

A shape is a self contained defined area of geometric or organic form. A positive shape in a painting automatically creates a negative shape.

DIRECTION

All lines have direction - Horizontal, Vertical or Oblique. Horizontal suggests calmness, stability and tranquillity. Vertical gives a feeling of balance, formality and alertness. Oblique suggests movement and action.

SIZE

Size is simply the relationship of the area occupied by one shape to that of another.

TEXTURE

Texture is the surface quality of a shape - rough, smooth, soft hard glossy etc. Texture can be physical (tactile) or visual.

COLOR

Also called Hue.

VALUE

Value is the lightness or darkness of a color. Value is also called Tone.

Sources:  John Lovett and Studio Chalkboard

Home - The Artist - Gallery - Order Form - Downloads - Lessons - Sitemap
Games - Artist Links - Glossary of Terms - Link to Us - Privacy Policy
  Send questions or comments to Jennifer Abbott