Principles of Design

The arrangement of elements in a composition can create balance or imbalance. Three key ways to create balance are through symmetry, asymmetry and radial symmetry.

Emphasis is what makes part of a composition stand out. Artists and designers can emphasise something by altering its position or using converging lines

Proportion describes the relationship between the dimensions of different elements. Scale refers to an artwork’s size and how parts of a composition relate to each other.

Unity refers to how different elements of an artwork or design work come together and create a sense of wholeness. It can be achieved through proximity, simplicity, repetition and continuation.

Variety refers to how artists and designers add complexity to their work using visual elements. Contrast, difference and change, and elaboration all add visual interest to an artist’s work.

Rhythm refers to how elements are repeated or how they change and develop. Rhythm can be described as either regular, flowing or progressive.