1. PRINCIPLE OF DESIGN USED
IN THE GRAPHIC ARTS

2. Balance
A feeling of visual equality in shape, form, value,
color, etc. Balance can be symmetrical or evenly
balanced or asymmetrical and un-evenly
balanced. Objects, values, colors, textures,
shapes, forms, etc., can be used in creating a
balance in a composition.

3. Balance

4. Emphasis
 Is a “center of interest”. An area that first attracts the attention in a
compostion. This area is more important when compared to the
other objects or elements in a composition. Emphasis can be
created through the use of contrasting colors, placement and size of
elements.

5. Emphasis

6. Pattern/ Repitition
 Repeating visual elements such as line, color,
shape, texture, value or image tends to unify
the total effect of a work of art as well as
create rhythm.

7. Pattern

8. Pattern

9. Proportion
 Refers to the relative size and scale of the
various elements in a design. The issue is the
relationship between objects, or parts, of a
whole.

10. Proportion

11. Movement
 The path the viewer’s eye takes through the
artwork, often to a focal area. It can be
directed along lines, edges, shapes, and color.
Movement is closely tied to rhythm.

12. Movement

13. Movement

14. Movement

15. Rhythm
 Rhythm is described as timed movement in
space. The presence of rhythm creates
predictability and order in a composition.
Rhythm relies heavily on pattern and
movement.

16. Rhythm

17. Contrast
 Refers to the arrangement of opposite
elements (light vs. dark colors, rough vs.
smooth textures, large vs. small shapes, etc.)
in a piece so as to create visual
interest, excitement and drama.

18. Contrast

19. Contrast

20. Unity
 Occurs when all the elements of a piece combine
to make a balanced, harmonious, complete whole.
Unity is another of those hard-to-describe art
terms but, when it is present, you eye and brain
are pleased to see it.