Elements & Principles of Art

My first image shows color as light is reflected. The three properties of color are hue, value, and intensity. The intensity in this image shows the colors being bright. We cannot see the color of the colored pencils in this image without light.

My second image is balance. Balance is the distribution of visual weight. Balance can be displayed through symmetry or asymmetry. The designs in the stain glass window show vertical symmetry. 

My third image is contrast. Contrast is the differences in values, colors, textures, and shapes. In this image, there is color contrast between the green and blue on the wall. 

My fourth image is unity. Unity is achieved through repeated shapes and clustering. Unity makes artwork feel complete and finished. The repetition of the leaves, colors, and full circle make the wreath feel complete. 

My last image is emphasis. Emphasis is the focus. Contrast is often used to emphasize the area of interest that can be shown through shape, size, or color. The emphasis in this image could be the large off-centered tree in the front or the colored maroon sign in the distance. 

 

Extension Activity: 

One activity I could use to teach the elements and principles of design is a nature scavenger hunt. The teacher would lead the class on a nature walk instructing students to pick up 3 items they find along the walk. Once the nature walk ends and the students are back in the classroom, the teacher could post the definitions of the elements and principles of art on the board and encourage students to brainstorm what elements they observe on/from their items (shape, color, texture, etc). The class could then jigsaw share their observations eventually leading to a teacher-led discussion. 

Another activity I could use to teach rhythm and movement could be in science class. In groups, I could have my students listen to the rhythm of waves in the ocean. In math, the students could look at the movement of waves and calculate the amplitude of a wave.