Line: The most basic building block analysis -- lines are used to create complex shapes and to lead the eyes in the composition
Value: This is the degree from light to dark in a piece -- it is the extreme changes between values.
Shape: a shape is created when lines combine to form geometric or organic shapes
Space: The area between and around objects, thus changing the way we view the object
Form: A 3-D shape with length, width, and height
Color: differentiates and defines -- even blacks and whites have many shades of grey.
Texture: Surface Quality that can be seen and felt. Ranges from rough, smooth, soft, and hard. Textures are often implied.
Design Elements
Balance is found when textures, colors, forms, or shapes are put together into one piece.
Contrast: Using elements that do not usually work together in order to hold attention through tension.
Movement: How the eye is directed around a piece through lines, shapes, or colors.
Pattern: Repetition of a shape, form or texture.
Emphasis: The use of art elements to draw the eye towards a particular part of the image.
Rhythm: Repetition of a pattern bringing the expectation that the pattern will continue.
Proportion/Scale: when sizes of a piece are combined harmoniously. Changes in scale can change perceptions.
Unity/Harmony:This is when all of the parts work together in a piece -- the opposite of contrast. Some artists avoid this due to the potential for creating anxiety.