Elements and Principles 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-   self contained defined area of geometric or graphic form.

Direction- all lines have direction - horizontal, vertical, or oblique.

Texture- Surface quality of shape.

Color- Hue

Value- Lightness or darkness of a area

Balance- Similar to balance in physics

Gradation- Produce linear perspective

Repition-  Art without variation  

Contrast- Jaxtaposition of opposing elements

Harmony- Visually satisfy effects of combining similiar

Dominance- Gives a painting interest

Unity- Relating the design element to the idea being expressed