Elements and PrinciplesBy Nick Fraser

ElementsThe basic unit of design

Line• A line is a fundamental mark or stroke used in drawing in

which the length is longer than the width. • a mark that spans a distance between two points, taking

any form along the way.• Uses

• A line that defines or outlines an edge, but not always the outside edge, could represent a fold or color change.

• Many uses include to separate columns, rows of type, or to show a change in document type.

Tone• The use of light and dark, shade and highlight.• Uses• Creates the illusion of distance or shape.• Give volume or weight to an element

Color• You see color because of the light that reflects off

of it.• Uses• Color can help with organization• It can emphasize a certain object, person, etc.

Texture• The way a surface feels or is perceived to feel. • Uses• Make a picture look like it has a rough surface or a smooth

surface to add affect

PrinciplesThe details of a design

Proximity• The sense of distance between objects• Uses• To show the difference in distance between two elements

in a work of art

Emphasis• The focus element in a work of art• Uses• To focus your eye on the important part of the art with the

use of tone, color and line.

Repetition• The use of the same element over and over again• Uses• To put your attention on the repeated element

Contrast• Elements that stand out because they are

different• Uses• Gives variety and makes elements more lively

Typography• The art of how printed words appear on the page• Uses• Typography can change the font, the color of the wording,

the font size and anything to do with the set up of the words

Bibliography• http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elements_of_art• http://

www.canleyvale.hs.education.nsw.gov.au/Winning%20websites/art/eod.htm