Cook High Art

PRINCIPLES OF DESIGN- The Principles of Design are the rules that govern how artists organize the elements of art.

1. RHYTHM - Rhythm is the principle that indicates movement by the repetition of elements or objects. Visual rhythm is perceived through the eyes and is created by repeating positive spaces separated by negative spaces. There are five types of rhythm: random, regular, alternating, flowing, and progressive.

2. MOVEMENT- Movement is the principle used to create the look and feel of action and to guide the viewer's eye throughout the work of art.

3. PATTERN- Pattern is the principle that refers to a two-dimensional decorative visual repetition. A pattern has no movement and may or may not have rhythm.

4. BALANCE - Balance is the principle concerned with equalizing visual forces, or elements in a work of art. If a work of art has visual balance, the viewer feels that elements have been arranged in a satisfying way.   There are two types of balance, asymmetrical and symmetrical.

5. PROPORTION- Proportion is the principle concerned with the size relationships of one part to another.

6. VARIETY - Variety is the principle concerned with difference or contrast.

7. EMPHASIS- Emphasis is the principle that makes one part of a work dominant over the other parts.  

8. UNITY: Unity is the quality of wholeness or oneness that is achieved through the effective use of the elements and principles of art. (It is also often called harmony).