LESSON 3 Principles of art

• principle of variety

  It refers to the use of different elements to create interest in a composition.
• principle of unity

  It refers to the sense of harmony and cohesiveness in a composition.
• principle of contrast 


  occurs when two or more visual elements in a composition are different.
• principle of movement

  It is used to create the look and feeling of action.
• principle of pattern

  Art elements are used in planned or random repetitions to enhance surfaces of paintings or sculptures.
• principle of balance

  It is concerned with arranging elements so no part of a work overpowers or seems heavier than any other part.
• What are the three kinds of balance in art and design?

  • Formal (symmetrical): Two halves are mirror images.
  • Informal (asymmetrical): Two unlike elements seem to carry equal weight.
  • Radial: Elements or objects are positioned around a central point.
• formal (symmetrical) balance


  Two halves are mirror images.
• informal (asymmetrical) balance


  Two unlike elements seem to carry equal weight.
• radial balance


  Elements or objects in an artwork are positioned around a central point.
• Principles of Art

  1. principle of variety
  2. principle of unity
  3. principle of contrast
  4. principle of movement
  5. principle of pattern
  6. principle of balance
  7. principle of emphasis