| Principle |
Definition |
Example |
| Balance |
The
ability to arrange all the elements so that no part is overpowering |
Shapes
and colors must be repeated for good balance. |
| Harmony |
The
blending of elements to create an integrated appearance |
Achieved
by repetition of several of the elements such as repeating
colors, shapes, and space, think "unified." |
| Emphasis |
The
ability to attract attention |
Where
is your eye attracted to first in the painting? The emphasis
or "focal point" should be obvious to you. |
| Movement |
The
way your eye moves around and through the painting |
After
seeing the focal point, what do you look at next and why? |
| Contrast |
Purposeful
changes in elements and principles to add interest and emphasis |
Are
there complimentary colors or overpowering highlights that
add tension and excitiment to the painting? |
| Rhythm |
The
repetition of elements that helps add balance and harmony
to the whole |
Similar
to balance, graceful billowing fabrics, repeated highlights
and colors |