Balance: Balance refers to the distribution of visual weight in a
work of art. In painting, it is the visual equilibrium of the elements that
causes the total image to appear balanced. Balance can be either symmetrical or
asymmetrical in a work of art.
Movement: Visual movement is used by artists to direct viewers through
their work, often to a focal area. Such movement can e directed along lines,
edges, shapes, and colours within the work, but moves the eye most easily on
paths of equal value. (parts that look the same)
Rhythm: Rhythm is the repetition of visual movement- colours, shapes, or
lines. Variety is essential to keep rhythms exciting and active, and to avoid
monotony. Movement and rhythm work together to create the visual equivalent of
a musical beat.
Contrast: Contrast refers to difference in values (dark vs. light),
colours, textures, shapes, and other elements. Contrasts create visual
excitement and add interest to the work. If all the art elements (for example,
value, are the same) the result is monotonous and unexciting.
Emphasis: Emphasis is used by artists to create dominance and focus in
their work. Artists can emphasize colour, value, shapes, or other art elements
to achieve dominance. Various kinds of contrast can be used to emphasize a
center of interest.
Pattern: Pattern uses the art elements in planned or random repletions
to enhance surfaces of paintings or sculptures. Patterns often occur in nature,
and artists use similar repeated motifs to create pattern work. Pattern increases
the visual excitement by enriching surface interest.
^^^ Those are the six principles but one principle that means all of them
combined is, unity. Unity is the most important aspects of well-
designed art and is planned by the artist. Unity provides the cohesive quality
that makes an art work feel complete and finished. When all the elements in a
work look as though they belong together, the artist has achieved unity