The elements of design are the parts that define the visual landscape. They are the tools and the components that a person uses to create a composition. In some respects they are vocabulary we use to compose a design, and as such, they are open to some interpretation. So you may find variations and overlap with ‘Principles,’ ‘rules of thmb’ or even ‘opinion.’

The main categories:

• Line – the visual path that enables the eye to move across a design. This is sometimes referred to or combined with ‘Direction.’
• Shape – the areas defined by edges within a piece
• Colour – Hues, tints, tone and shades
• Texture – surface qualities which translate to tactile illusion
• Form or scale – The size elements and relationship that create a hierarchy. Length, width and depth.
• Space – taken by objects (positive) or in between objects (negative)
• Mark and materiality – What materials and interation of the viewer and artist
• Symmetry