Principles of Composition

(Principles of Design)

Principles of Composition

● There are a total of 11 Principles of Composition (Principles of Design), although some are often grouped together.

● The Principles of Design are the ways that

artists use the Elements of Art to create good Compositions (artwork)

Principles of Composition

● Balance● Emphasis● Movement● Repetition / Pattern / Rhythm● Variety● Harmony / Unity● Proportion● Contrast

BalanceThis principle of design refers to

the visual equalization of the elements in a work of art.

There are three major forms of

balance: Radial, Symmetrical and Asymmetrical.

Radial balance: a kind of balance where the elements branch or radiate out from a central point.

Symmetrical balance: where the art elements in a composition are balanced in a mirror-like fashion (it does not have to be exact but close).

Asymmetrical balance: where equilibrium is achieved by the balance differences in the art elements within a composition.

Balance - “Visual Weight”

Balance - Radial

Balance - Symmetrical

Balance - Asymmetrical

Emphasis(Dominance)

The principle of design that is concerned with dominance; the development of a main

idea or center of interest (also called focal point)

Emphasis (Dominance)

MovementMovement is the design principle that uses some of

the elements of art to produce action, to achieve the look of action (Literal/Actual Movement), OR to cause the viewer’s eye to sweep over the art

work in a certain manner (Compositional Movement).

Literal/Actual Movement

Compositional Movement

Rhythm / Repetition /

PatternRepetition of an element of

art (i.e., shapes, lines, or colors) to achieve a visual

beat (Rhythm) or to create a decorative effect (pattern).

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VarietyVariety is achieved when the art elements are combined in various ways to increase

visual interest.

For instance, an assortment of shapes that are of a variety of sizes attracts more

attention than an assortment of shapes all the same size.

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Harmony / Unity

This principle refers to the visual quality of wholeness or oneness

that is achieved through effective use of the elements of art and

principles of design

ProportionThe relationship of one component

(part) of a work of art to another. Proportion can be achieved through

size, colour, quantity, etc.

Items in still life are “in proper proportion” (relative sizes)

Figures in painting are “out of proportion” (relative sizes)

High proportion of colour (ie: purple)

Low proportion of colour (ie: purple)

Even proportion of colour(ie: purple vs yellow)

ContrastA design principle that emphasizes

differences between the art elements.

For example, a painting may have bright colors that contrast with dull colors or

angular shapes that contrast with rounded shapes.

Sharp contrast draws attention and can direct a viewer to a focal point within a work

of art.

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