Design Principles: Emphasis and Contrast

Emphasis and Contrast

• Emphasis refers to an area of dominance in an eye-catching work of art, creating a focal point.
• Emphasis can be achieved by placement, contrast, color, size, and repetition.
• Examples of emphasis include:
• Emphasis using size, where a larger element draws attention.
• Emphasis using color, where a bold or contrasting color stands out.
• Emphasis using form, where a unique shape or texture draws attention.

Contrast

• Contrast is a big difference between two things, creating visual interest.
• Contrast is used to create a difference between a focal point and the rest of the artwork.
• Examples of contrast include:
• Differences in color, shape, texture, and more.
• Placing a light color next to a dark color to create contrast.

Focal Point

• A focal point is the place in a work of art where the eye goes first, grabbing attention.
• The focal point helps to understand the main concept of the artwork.
• Emphasis can be used to create a focal point by creating contrast between the focal point and the rest of the artwork.

Rhythm/Movement and Pattern

Rhythm/Movement

• Rhythm/movement is created by the regular repetition of elements to direct the eye through the artwork.
• Types of rhythm include:
• Random rhythm, where elements are repeated without specific intervals.
• Regular rhythm, where elements are repeated at regular intervals.
• Progressive rhythm, where a characteristic of a motif is changed while repeating it.
• Flowing rhythm, where elements are repeated in arcs, curves, and waves.

Pattern

• A pattern is the repetition of lines, shapes, textures, colors, and other elements to decorate or enhance artworks.
• Patterns can be created using different elements, such as:
• Repeating lines, shapes, and colors.

Harmony/Unity, Proportion/Scale, Balance

Harmony/Unity

• Harmony/unity is created when elements are arranged to make the artwork look complete.
• Harmony makes the viewer feel that parts in the image are balanced and form a whole image.
• Examples of harmony and unity include:
• Using form, color, and repetition to create a harmonious image.

Proportion/Scale

• Proportion refers to the size of parts of an object in comparison to each other.
• Scale refers to the size or position of one object in relation to another.
• Proportion is important in art, especially when it comes to the human face and body.
• Examples of proportion and scale include:
• Using size to create relationships between objects in a picture.
• Considering the foreground, middle ground, and background in a picture.

Balance

• Balance is created when the elements of design are arranged symmetrically or asymmetrically to create equality in weight or importance.
• Types of balance include:
• Symmetrical balance, where both sides are the same.
• Asymmetrical balance, where both sides have unequal visual weight but are still balanced.
• Radial balance, where elements are stretched from a central point.

Explore the design principles of emphasis and contrast in art, including how they relate to the 7 elements of art. Learn how artists use these principles to create effective artworks.