Elements of Design

By Colin Riesbeck

Line
Definition: Linear marks made with
pen/brush or the edge created when
two shapes meet.

Shape/Form
Definition: Contained and defined
area of geometric or organic form.

Space
Definition: An area that a shape or
form occupies, can be positive or
negative.

Value
Definition: Lightness and darkness of
color.

Texture
Definition: Surface quality of a shape,
can be physical or visual.

Color
Definition: The part of light that is
reflected by the object that we see.

Emphasis
Definition: An area or object within
the artwork that draws attention and
becomes a focal point.

Balance
Definition: The distribution of the
visual weight of objects, colors,
textures, and space.

Unity/Harmony
Definition: Visually satisfying due to
combination of similar related
elements.

Contrast
Definition: An arrangement of
opposite elements.

Movement
Definition: The use of lines, colors, values,
textures, forms, and space to carry/direct
the eye of the viewer from one part of the
image to another.

Pattern/Repetition
Definition: An underlying structure
that organizes surfaces or structures
in a consistent, regular manner.