Balance
Balance refers to the distribution of visual weight in a work of art. Balance can be symmetrical, asymmetrical or radial.
Movement
Visual movement is used by artists to direct viewers through their work, often to a focal area.
Rhythm
Rhythm is the repetition of visual movement - colors, shapes or lines. Movement and rhythm work together to create the visual equivalent of a musical beat.
Contrast
Contrast refers to differences is values, colors, textures, shapes, and other elements.
Emphasis
Emphasis is used by artists to create dominance and focus in their work. Artists can emphasize color, value, shapes or other art elements to achieve dominance.
Pattern
Pattern uses the art elements in planned or random repetitions to enhance surfaces of paintings or sculptures.
Unity
Visual unity is one of the most important aspects of well-designed art and is planned by the artist. Unity provides the cohesive quality that makes an art work feel complete and finished.