Composition and Art

1-Dimenstional- An object that is a line or a segment of one, which has length, but does not have any other characteristics.

2-Dimensional- This is an object that has length and height but does not have any depth to it.

3-Dimensional- This is an object that has width, height, and depth. It is able to be observed from all angles and sides.

4-Dimensional- Artwork that not only has length, width, and depth, but it also involves time and spatial dimensions.

Balance- This is the sharing of the visual weight of objects, colors, texture, and space. In order for no one area to overpower the other areas.

Focal Point- An area of a picture or piece of art that attracts the viewer’s eye.

Asymmetry- When there is a lack of symmetry between halves of a piece. This does not mean that there is no balance.

Rule of Thirds- This is where an imaginary grid is placed upon a picture or piece of art that separates the picture into six grids. When the subject is in the left or right third of an image, or even on the lines or on the intersection points, it creates a more compelling shot.

Chiaroscuro- A highly realistic depiction of figures that involves the transition from light to dark, which allows there to be volume and depth.

Contrast- This is achieved when there are opposite elements that appear in art. Although they are opposites, being together allows them to be attractive.

Leading Lines- A technique with composition that uses lines or line shapes to direct the viewer’s eyes to a specific detail.

Motif- When there is a recurring fragment, theme, or pattern in a piece of art.

Negative Space- This is space that surrounds a subject and is typically empty or lacks details, can also be referred to as white space.

Unity/Harmony- When a piece brings together a sense of harmony and wholeness, which is achieved by placing similar elements together.

Rhythm / Pattern- Using repetition with lines, shapes, forms, or colors.