By: Amber Conklin

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.

Leading Lines

A leading line is a line formed by a pair of marks, which are generally man-made, that are used in position fixing and navigation, to indicate a safe passage through a shallow or dangerous channel

Texture

Texture is the surface quality of a shape - rough, smooth, soft hard glossy etc. Texture can be physical or visual.

Color

Each color has its own value.

Symmetrical Balance

When everything is perfectly and evenly balanced out. 

Asymmetrical BalanceBalance in the design is similar to balance in physics

• A large shape close to the center can be balanced by a small shape close to the edge. 

• A large light toned shape will be balanced by a small dark toned shape.

Gradation

Gradation of size and direction produce linear perspective. Gradation of of colour from warm to cool and tone from dark to light produce aerial perspective. Gradation can add interest and movement to a shape. A gradation from dark to light will cause the eye to move along a shape.

Direction

All lines have direction - Horizontal, Vertical or Oblique. Horizontal suggests calmness, stability and tranquillity. Vertical gives a feeling of balance, formality and alertness. Oblique suggests movement and action.

Repetition

Repetition with variation is interesting, without variation repetition can become monotonous. 

Pattern

A repeated decorative design.

Contrast

Something in juxtaposition or close association.

Proportion

 A part considered in relation to the whole.

Unity

The state of being united or joined as a whole.

Size

Size is simply the relationship of the area occupied by one shape to that of another.

Negative Space

The space around and between the subject of an image.

Dominance

An object or color that stands out.

Rule Of Thirds

The basic principle behind the rule of thirds is to imagine breaking an image down into thirds (both horizontally and vertically) so that you have 9 parts.

Visual Center

The visual center is to the right and above the actual center of the page.