PRINCIPLES OF DESIGN

by Mariana Pego

PROPORTION

 Proportion refers to the relative size and scale of parts of a whole (elements within an object).

UNITY AND VARIETY

Unity is the feeling of harmony between all parts of the composition creating a sense of completeness.

Variety is the use of several different elements with some common meaning or style to guide the eye through the composition.

BALANCE

Balance is the distribution of the visual weight of the Elements of Art within a composition.

EMPHASIS

Emphasis is the point of focus in a composition that most strongly attracts the viewer’s attention.

RHYTHM

Rhythm is created when one or more of the Elements of Art are used repeatedly to create a feeling of organized movement.

Gradation

Alternation

Repetition