10/17/23, 9:22 PM
Elements of Art
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Elements of Art
Horizontal lines
oSuggests a feeling of rest or response because objects parallel to the earth at
rest.
oIn this landscape horizontal lines also help give a sense of space
oThe lines delineate se…
Vertical lines
oOften communicate a sense of height because they are perpendicular to the
earth, extending upwards toward the sky
Horizontal and vertical lines
o
Diagonal lines
oConvey a feeling of movement, objects in diagonal position are unstable. Because
they are neither vertical…
Curved lines
oSoft, shallow curves recall a pleasing quality and a softening effect on the
composition and often offer a leading line
Shape
oHas only height and width, shape is usually, though not always, defined by line,
which can provide its contour
Form
oHas depth as well as width and height, 3D form is the basis of sculpture,
furniture, and decorative arts, 3D forms can be seen from more than one side
Geometric shapes and forms
oInclude mathematical, named shapes such as square, rectangles, circles, cubes,
and cones. Geometric shapes cand forms are often man made, however, many
natural forms also have geometric shape
Organic shapes and forms
oAre typically irregular or asymmetrical. Organic shapes are often found in nature,
but man made shapes can also imitate organic forms
Positive and negative space
oThe relationship of positive to negative space can greatly affect the impact of a
work of art
3D space
oThe perfect illusion of 3D space in a 2D work of art is something that many artists
work to achieve
Value
oDescribes the brightness of color. Artists use color value to create moods dark
colors in a composition suggests a lack of light, as in a night or interior scene.
Dark colors can often…
10/17/23, 9:22 PM
Elements of Art
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Intensity
oDescribes the purity or strength of a color. Bright colors are undiluted and are
often associated with positive energy and heightened emotion. Dull colors have
been diluted by mixing with other colors and create a sedate or serious mood
Texture depiction in 2D
oArtists use of color, line, and shading to imply textures
Surface texture
oArtists use actual texture to add a tactile quality to the work
