CONTEMPORARY PHILIPPINE ARTS FROM THE REGIONS

QUARTER 1 – LESSON 4
Elements of Visual Arts
Every visual art utilizes at least one of the six (6) elements: lines, shapes, forms, colors, textures, and
space. The different Elements of Art can be used to express certain emotions and meaning. Depending on how
it looks, humans have different emotional and psychological responses and perceptions to each.

1. A line is a stroke or mark that can be straight, curved, thick, or thin. Depending on the look and how it is
used, a line may be utilized to suggest movement, emotions, depth, distance, and rhythm. For example, an
artwork with scribbled, jagged lines may convey emotions of anger and sadness, whereas another artwork
with refined and straight lines may convey tranquility.
2. A shape is a space enclosed by lines. The use of shapes can dictate the point of view of the viewer or
audience called, perspective. Perspective changes depending on a shape’s size and angles. For instance, a
square can indicate that an object is being viewed in front, then changing it to a trapezoid can mean that the
object is now below the normal eye level and that there is a change in perspective. Additionally, shapes can
also present different emotions and actions, such as circles for continuous movement.
3. Form pertains to a three-dimensional shape or any shape that has length, width, and depth. Forms help
create the illusion of a three-dimensional design in a two-dimensional plane, like in interior design or
architectural design. More importantly, form is an integral element in traditional 3D art, such as carving and
ceramics.
4. Color refers to the product when light hits an object then reflected to the eyes. Value is how light (tint) and
dark (shade) a color is. The color of an artwork is most often the first element a viewer evaluates and
interprets. The use and value of color creates the mood of an artwork. Imagine a painting of a city colored in
dark blue – it gives off a depressing and lonely atmosphere. But if the same painting is colored with a
combination of yellow, green, and sky blue, it would exude a joyful and pleasant vibe to the viewer.
5. Space is the area surrounding, between, and within an object; can either be positive or negative. Positive
space is the area occupied by any object, usually the foreground or object itself, whereas negative space is the
area surrounding an object. Space can change a lot of things in an artwork. It illustrates the distance between
objects, perspective, depth, as well as size. It helps evoke a different message based on the relationship of the
foreground and background.
6. Texture pertains to the visual perception of the surface of any object. The texture of an artwork can be
experienced either through seeing or feeling it. Using the other elements of art, the artist can recreate the
surface quality of an object, which greatly contributes to realism or the imitation of life itself. Optical illusions
of the actual textures of objects are recreated in paintings and drawings.