Overview
This lecture explains the principles of design, which guide how elements of art are arranged in a composition to create effective visual artwork.
Composition and the Rule of Thirds
- Composition refers to how objects are arranged within an artwork.
- The rule of thirds uses a grid to place points of interest at intersections for a more engaging composition.
- Objects positioned on the intersections or along the lines of the grid usually appear more visually interesting.
Principle: Movement
- Movement is the path the viewer's eye takes through an artwork, often guided by lines, edges, colors, or shapes.
- Lines or edges can direct attention to focal areas.
Principle: Balance
- Balance is the distribution of visual weight, making the artwork feel stable.
- Symmetrical balance: both sides are the same or nearly identical.
- Asymmetrical balance: both sides are different but still feel stable, achieved through arrangement of shapes, values, or subjects.
Principle: Unity and Variety
- Unity (also called harmony) is the use of similar or repeated elements for consistency.
- Unity can be created with repeated colors, shapes, or consistent themes.
- Variety uses different elements to create interest or contrast within an artwork.
Principle: Rhythm and Pattern
- Rhythm is repeating elements to create a sense of organized movement, like a visual beat.
- Pattern involves repeated designs, shapes, or motifs and can help unify or add interest to an artwork.
Principle: Scale and Proportion
- Scale compares the size of one object to another (e.g., small animal vs. large mountain).
- Proportion compares parts of a whole (e.g., parts of a face), often referring to size ratios.
Principle: Emphasis
- Emphasis is what stands out most in an artwork, usually the area with the most detail, size, or unique qualities.
Principle: Contrast and Juxtaposition
- Contrast is the difference between elements like color, value, shape, or texture.
- High contrast has large differences between light and dark; low contrast has little difference.
- Juxtaposition places unlike things together to highlight their differences, often attracting attention.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Composition — The arrangement of elements in an artwork.
- Rule of Thirds — Dividing the image into a 3x3 grid to guide placement.
- Movement — The visual path for the viewer’s eye in the artwork.
- Balance — The distribution of visual weight for stability.
- Unity — Repetition of similar elements to create consistency.
- Variety — Use of different elements for interest.
- Rhythm — Repetition to create organized motion.
- Pattern — Regular repetition of designs or shapes.
- Scale — Relative size comparison between objects.
- Proportion — Size relationship among parts of a whole.
- Emphasis — The dominant area that attracts attention.
- Contrast — Degree of difference between elements.
- Juxtaposition — Placing unlike things together to show contrast.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review class notes on the elements of art for deeper understanding.
- Observe artworks to identify principles of design discussed.
- Practice arranging objects in sketches using the rule of thirds.