The Principles of Design- basic notes
Balance
To understand balance, think of the balance beam. When objects are of equal weight, they are in balance. If you have several small items on one side, they can be balanced by a large object on the other side. Visual balance works in much the same way. Symmetrical Balance- the same on both sides Asymmetrical Balance- different on both sides but still visually balanced Radial Balance- everything comes from a center point |
Pattern
The elements of Art repeat in a predictable manner.
Some examples are zig zag or polka dots.
The elements of Art repeat in a predictable manner.
Some examples are zig zag or polka dots.
Movement
The suggestion of motion in a work of art or design by the relationship of the basic elements in a design or composition.
In graphic design, movement is also known as flow. Flow is the combination of elements (line shape, color, etc.) to guide the viewer around the design in the correct direction.
Why is important?
You want the viewer to see everything in the correct order and you want the viewer to look at your design for as long as possible.
The suggestion of motion in a work of art or design by the relationship of the basic elements in a design or composition.
In graphic design, movement is also known as flow. Flow is the combination of elements (line shape, color, etc.) to guide the viewer around the design in the correct direction.
Why is important?
You want the viewer to see everything in the correct order and you want the viewer to look at your design for as long as possible.
Rhythm
- is a principle in which some elements are drawn regularly. Like a dance it will have a flow of objects that will seem to be like the beats of music. It's just like pattern and shows that the design has a 'beat' or 'flow' going with it. The timed "beat" is sensed by the eyes rather than the ears. A plain white box has no rhythm what so ever. |
Unity
The total visual effect in a design achieved by the careful blending of the elements of art and the principles of design.
All the elements of art and principles of design combined into one design.
Variety: Variety is the use of different elements.
Too much unity, too much of the same thing, leads to boredom. But, too much variety leads to chaos.
The total visual effect in a design achieved by the careful blending of the elements of art and the principles of design.
All the elements of art and principles of design combined into one design.
Variety: Variety is the use of different elements.
Too much unity, too much of the same thing, leads to boredom. But, too much variety leads to chaos.