Breadth 1 Principles of Design Principles of Design

Breadth #1 Principles of Design

Principles of Design • Certain qualities inherent in the choice and arrangement of elements of art in the production of a work of art. • Artists "design" their works to varying degrees by controlling and ordering the elements of art. • Considering the principles is especially useful in analyzing ways in which a work is pleasing in formal ways.

Principles of Design • Some principles overlap or oppose others, and some are viewed as more important, more ideal, more relevant or irrelevant (or even undesirable) than others. • It is understandable that various authorities' lists of principles differ one from another.

Balance refers to the way the elements of art are arranged to create a feeling of stability in a work; a pleasing or harmonious arrangement or proportion of parts or areas in a design or composition. Balance can be symmetrical, or formal; or it can be asymmetrical, or informal. It can also be radial.

Emphasis is any forcefulness that gives importance or dominance (weight) to some feature or features of an artwork; something singled out, stressed, or drawn attention to. Often, emphasized elements are used to direct and focus attention on its focal point.

Proportion refers to the comparative, proper, or harmonious relationship of one part to another or to the whole with respect to size and quantity.

Contrast is a large difference between two things; for example, hot and cold, green and red, light and shadow. Contrast refers to a way of juxtaposing elements of art to stress the differences between them. Used in an effective way, contrast can excite, emphasize and direct attention to points of interest.

Harmony is a union or blend of aesthetically compatible components. Harmony refers to a way of combining elements of art to accent their similarities and bind the picture parts into a whole. It is often achieved through the use of repetition and simplicity.

Rhythm refers to a regular repetition of elements of art to produce the look and feel of movement. It is often achieved through the careful placement of repeated components, which invite the viewer's eye to jump rapidly or glide smoothly from one to the next. Often associated with pattern.

Unity is the quality of wholeness or oneness that is achieved through the effective use of the elements and principles of design. A totality that combines all of its parts into one complete, cohesive composition. Often it is realized through deliberate balancing of harmony and variety.

Repetition refers to a way of combining elements of art so that the same elements are used over and over again. Repetition also can contribute to movement and rhythm in a work of art. Repetition is closely related to harmony.

Artistic CHALLENGE for Breadth #1: Photography based: Dynamically photograph all 9 Principles of Design, thinking critically about your subject matter. Work on composition and pay close attention to color, light, depth of field and selective focus. Utilize a variety of points of view while photographing.

Artistic CHALLENGE for Breadth #1: Drawing/Painting based: “Design” a work of art that focuses on several principles. Think about your subject matter, and how you can create an artwork that demonstrates knowledge of the Principles of Design. Use your strengths to your advantage.

Inspirational Artists: Morris Louis Helen Frankenthaler

Inspirational Artists: Frank Stella Ellsworth Kelly

Inspirational Artists: Barnet Newman Mark Rothko