This document defines and provides examples of the elements and principles of art, which are the basic building blocks used to create works of art. The elements discussed include line, shape, form, space, texture, color, and value. The principles discussed include rhythm, movement, balance, proportion, variety, emphasis, harmony, and unity. For each element and principle, a brief definition is given along with an example image to illustrate it.

1. T he E lements and P rinciples of A rt John Richard Zollo

2. Elements of Art The Building Blocks of Creating Art Work

4. Example of Line

6. Example of Shape

8. Example of Form

10. Example of Space

12. Example of Texture

13. Line Shape Form Space Texture Color Value Color is light reflected off objects. Color has three main characteristics: hue (red, green, blue, etc.), value (how light or dark it is), and intensity (how bright or dull it is). Colors can be described as warm (red, yellow) or cool (blue, gray), depending on which end of the color spectrum they fall.

14. Example of Color

16. Example of Value

17. Principles of Art Combining Elements and Creativity to Make a Masterpiece

19. Example of Rhythm

21. Example of Movement

23. Example of Symmetrical Balance

24. Example of Asymmetrical Balance

25. Example of Radial Balance

27. Example of Proportion

29. Example of Variety

31. Example of Emphasis

33. Example of Harmony

35. Example of Unity

36. Questions? Now complete the following question: What Principle fits best with the pieces given?