The Elements of Design
Line
Line can be considered in two ways. The linear marks
made with a pen or brush or the edge created when two shapes meet.
Shape
A shape is a self-contained defined area of
geometric or organic form. A positive shape in a painting automatically creates
a negative shape.
Direction
All lines have direction – Horizontal, Vertical or
Oblique. Horizontal suggests calmness, stability and tranquility. Vertical
gives a feeling of balance, formality and alertness.
Size is simply the relationship of the area occupied
by one shape to that of another.
Texture is the surface quality of a shape – rough,
smooth, soft, hard, glossy etc. Texture can be physical or visual.
Color is the part of light that is reflected by the
object we see. Color is also called hue.
Value is the lightness or darkness of a color. Value
is also called tone.
