Elements and Principles of Design

An element of art that identifies the hue of natural and manufactured objects. Color is perceived as a response to light waves on the eyes.

An element of art that relates to the lightness or darkness of a color or a tone. Some words to describe value are dull, weak, gloomy, and strong.

An element of art that indicates open areas in an artwork; also the illusion of depth in a two-dimensional work of art. Space is also called "perspective".

An element of art that is in an enclosed space, having only 2 dimensions. Shapes can be geometric (triagles, circles, etc), or free-form (organic) with curving and irregular outlines.

The element of art that refers to the quality of the surface. Texture can be both seen and touched. Some words to describe texture are shiny, smooth, gritty, and rough.

An element of art where a dot is extended in some manner. Line is used to symbolize direction, imply movement, or determine boundaries or shapes.

Form occurs when a three-dimensional quality has been achieved in a shape. Tone and shadow are used to create this effect or form may be actually three-dimensions. as in pottery.