Visual Composition: Elements

of Design
By: Aidan V
Line
This image is an excellent
example of the Line element,
because it clearly shows how
Line can be used to create
boundaries (i.e. between the
sun and the horizon).
Line: Refers to the continuous
movement of a point along a
surface. Edges of shapes and
forms are also lines. Every line
has length, thickness and
direction, and are the basic
building blocks of 2D shapes.
Shape
I used this image for Shape, because it
allows you to see how simple geometric
shapes can be juxtaposed to create a
recognizable image, like this house and
driveway.
Shape: An area that stands out from the
space next to or around it due to a
defined or implied boundary, or because
of differences of value, color, or texture.
Can be geometric, or organic. Can be
used in design to add interest, style and
theme.

Form
Form is similar to shape, but it is three-
dimensional. Each surface of this diamond
is a two-dimensional shape, but the entire
design of the diamond is three-
dimensional.
Color
This is a good example of color, because it
shows how each color blends into the next
and can be lightened and darkened (i.e.
near the centre and edges of the wheel).
Color: Seen either by the way light reflects
off a surface, or in colored light sources.
Color and particularly contrasting color is
also used to draw the attention to a
particular part of the image. There are
primary colors, secondary colors, and
tertiary colors. Complementary colors are
colors that are opposite each other on the
color wheel. Complementary colors are
used to create contrast. Analogous colors
are colors that are found side by side on
the color wheel and can be used to create
color harmony. Monochromatic colors are
tints and shades of one color.

Texture
Although you cant physically feel
the leaf in this photograph, you
can tell by its appearance that it
would feel smooth with thin veins
if it were real. The texture of the
leaf is implied by how it looks in
the picture.
Texture: Perceived surface quality.
In art, there are two types of
texture: tactile and implied. Tactile
texture (real texture) is the way
the surface of an object actually
feels. And example of this is
sandpaper. Implied texture is the
way the surface of an object looks
like it feels, but cannot actually be
felt.

Depth (Perspective)
The size and focus change
between each ball, as well as
the fact that they overlap
each other, gives this image
depth.
Depth: A dimension taken
through and object or body of
material, usually downward
from an upper surface,
horizontally inward from an
outer surface, or from top to
bottom of something regarded
as several layers.

Light
I chose this image to represent
Light because it shows how light
can be used in several ways. The
blue effect creates a mysterious
mood. It gives the image depth
and creates shadows around the
edges.

Light: The effect of light falling on
an object or scene as represented.
One of the brightest parts of a
picture. Can be used to create
depth, and show color and
texture.

Direction
The diagonal
direction and curves
of the lines in this
photograph cause
tension and
movement. If the
angle of the lines
were horizontal, it
would seem calm and
stable.
Direction: All lines
have direction. Can be
horizontal, vertical, or
oblique. Direction of
lines can suggest mood

Mass (Visual Weight)
The cinderblock in this photograph
is defined by thick, dark lines. The
contrast with the lighter
background makes the cinderblock
seem heavy and solid.
Mass: The amount of material used.
Can be implied in painting or
drawing, and can be heavy or light in
effect.

Tone (Black and White) Versus Value
(Color)
An image that uses no color, such as the one on the
left, usually has a feeling of gloom, dread, loneliness,
or other negative feelings whereas one that uses
vibrant color seems happy or exciting.
Notice how the moods of these two
photographs differ, simply because of the
color usage. Selective coloring can also be
used to draw attention to a particular object
in an otherwise black-and-white image.
Tone: Light and shadow. Can give solidity, volume and
weight to an image. Gives the impression of distance.
Can create emotion. The property of color; yellow is
light, blue is dark. Can also create rhythm by making
the eyes jump back and forth over the image.

Positive and Negative Space
I found this a
good example
of space.
Because of
the color
contrast, you
can easily see
the positive
(white) and
negative
(black) space
used.
Space: The
area provided
for a
particular
purpose. May
have two or
three
dimensions.
Refers to
areas
between,
around and
within the
components
or objects of
a piece. There
is positive
and negative
space.
Positive
represents
the subject
matter, and
negative
space
surrounds it.