The Principles of Design | Alex Noudelman All 5 explained with examples.

1. The Principles of Design

2. Contrast
The arrangement of opposite elements in an artwork
to create visual interest, excitement and drama.
Contrast of Texture
Contrast of Value Contrast of Color
Contrast of Size

3. Variety
A principle of design concerned with the inclusion of
difference in the elements of a composition to offset
unity and add interest to an artwork.
Variety of Value
Variety of Color
Variety of Texture

4. Emphasis
A principle of design in which one element, or a combination of
elements, create more attention than anything else in a
composition. This dominant element is usually a focal point.
Emphasis of Size
Emphasis of Line
Emphasis of Color

5. Balance
A principle of design referring to the arrangement of visual
elements to create stability in an artwork. There are 3 types of
these arrangements: asymmetrical, symmetrical and radial.
Balance of Space
Balance of Value, Shape and Space

6. Type of Balance: Symmetrical Balance
(Also called “Formal Balance”)
This is when an artwork is “weighted” the same
on both sides of the artwork

7. Type of Balance: Asymmetrical Balance
(Also called “Informal Balance”)
Elements are placed unevenly in an artwork, but
balance each other out harmoniously.

8. Rhythm and Repetition
Using an element multiple times within the same artwork.
Repetition of Shape
Repetition of Line
Repetition of shape,
space and color
Repetition of Texture,
Shape and Space

9. Movement
Repetition of an element of art, or the use of a continuous element
of art, to direct the viewer’s eye around the artwork.

10. Pattern
The repetition of an element, or combinations of element, in a
recognizable organization.

11. Unity
A principle of design related to the sense of wholeness that results
from using one of the elements similarly throughout the entire
artwork.
Unity of Texture
Unity of Shape
Unity of Color