Principles of Design

Balance

A large shape close to the center can be balanced by a small shape close to the edge.

A large light toned shape will be balanced by a small dark toned shape (the darker the shape the heavier it appears to be)

Large object in the middle, balanced by small object near the edge.
Large object in the middle, balanced by small object near the edge.

Gradation

Gradation of size and direction produce linear perspective.

Gradation of colour from warm to cool and tone from dark to light produce aerial perspective.

Gradation can add interest and movement to a shape.

A gradation from dark to light will cause the eye to move along a shape.

Gradation of tone.
Gradation of tone.

Repetition

Repetition with variation is interesting, without variation repetition can become monotonous.

If you wish to create interest, any repeating element should include a degree of variation.

repetition
Repetition with a slight variation.

Contrast

Contrast is the juxtaposition of opposing elements eg. opposite colour, contrast in tone or value, contrast in direction

The major contrast in a painting should be located at the center of interest. Too much contrast scattered throughout a painting can destroy unity and make a work difficult to look at. Unless a feeling of chaos and confusion are what you are seeking, it is a good idea to carefully consider where to place your areas of maximum contrast.

Contrast of colours.
Contrast of colours.

Harmony

Harmony in painting is the visually satisfying effect of combining similar, related elements. eg.adjacent colours on the colour wheel, similar shapes etc.

Harmony of adjacent colours.
Harmony of adjacent colours.

Dominance

Dominance gives a painting interest, counteracting confusion and monotony. Dominance can be applied to one or more of the elements to give emphasis

Dominance of size.
Dominance of size.

Unity

Relating the design elements to the the idea being expressed in a painting reinforces the principal of unity.eg. a painting with an active aggressive subject would work better with a dominant oblique direction, course, rough texture, angular lines etc. whereas a quiet passive subject would benefit from horizontal lines, soft texture and less tonal contrast.

Unity in a painting also refers to the visual linking of various elements of the work.

How unity works.
How unity works.

Center of interest

An area that first attracts attention in a composition. This area is more important when compared to the other objects or elements in a composition.  This can be by contrast of values, more colors, and placement in the format.

center of interest
Difference in colour and shape.

Directional Movement

A visual flow through the composition. It can be the suggestion of motion in a design as you move from object to object by way of placement and position.  Directional movement can be created with a value pattern. It is with the placement of dark and light areas that you can move your attention through the format.

directional movement
Gradual change in size causing movement.

Rhythm

A movement in which some elements recurs regularly. Like a dance it will have a flow of objects that will seem to be like the beat of music. The Principles of design are the results of your working with the elements of art. Use them in every piece of art you do and you will be happy with the results.

Repeated wavy movement of colour pencils forms a rhythm.
Repeated wavy movement of colour pencils forms a rhythm.