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ISBN: 978-81-974990-8-1

8. Elements and Principle of Art and Design

Dr. Sarita Kumari
Assistant Professor, Head P.G Department of Home Science,
MDDM college, Bhimrao Ambedkar Bihar University,
Muzaffarpur.

8.1 Introduction:

The principles of art are fundamental concepts that guide artists in creating visually
compelling and meaningful works. Balance refers to the distribution of visual weight within
a composition, whether symmetrical, asymmetrical, or radial, to achieve a sense of
equilibrium and harmony.

Emphasis directs the viewer's attention to specific elements or focal points, often through
contrast in size, color, or texture. Movement creates a sense of visual flow and dynamism,
guiding the viewer's eye through the artwork, whether through implied motion or actual
physical movement.

Proportion ensures that elements within the composition relate harmoniously to each other
in terms of size, scale, and ratio, establishing a sense of coherence and realism. Rhythm
introduces patterns, repetition, or alternation of elements, generating a sense of visual tempo
and energy. Unity ties together the various components of the artwork into a cohesive
whole, creating a sense of completeness and wholeness. Finally, variety introduces diversity
and interest, preventing monotony and adding complexity to the composition. These
principles work together to help artists create artworks that are visually engaging,
harmonious, and impactful.

8.2 Elements of Art:

The elements of art are the fundamental components or building blocks used by artists to
create visual compositions. Lines, the simplest and most versatile element, can define
shapes, suggest movement, and convey emotion through their direction, thickness, and
length. Forms or shapes provide structure and can be geometric, like squares and circles, or
organic, like natural, free-flowing shapes.

Colors bring vibrancy and mood to art, using variations in hue, saturation, and value to
create depth and interest. Textures add a tactile quality, whether real or implied, enriching
the visual experience by suggesting how an object might feel. Patterns arise from the
repetition of elements, creating a sense of rhythm and harmony. Space refers to the areas
around, between, and within objects, helping to create a sense of depth and perspective.
Light affects visibility and mood, influencing how colors and textures are perceived and
adding contrast through highlights and shadows. These elements work together, allowing
artists to convey their vision and evoke emotional responses from the viewer.

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A line in art is a mark drawn with a pointed, moving tool, possessing both length and width,
though its width is minimal. Lines are significant in-home planning and furnishing, carrying
emotional weight based on their direction and quality. Lines can be horizontal, vertical,
dotted, zigzag, curved, straight, diagonal, bold, or fine. They can guide the viewer’s eye,
outline objects, divide spaces, and convey feelings or emotions, compelling our eyes to
follow them.

Types of Lines and Their Effects in Interiors:

• Vertical Lines: Vertical lines are associated with masculinity, suggesting vitality,
activity, and dignity. They create an illusion of height and can be incorporated through
elements like vertical pictures or table lamps. To evoke a masculine ambiance, use more
vertical lines.
• Horizontal Lines: Horizontal lines evoke a sense of rest, steadiness, and permanence.
Furniture like low tables, sofas, and bookshelves exemplify horizontal lines,
contributing to a stable and relaxed environment.
• Diagonal Lines: Diagonal lines imply movement and force, often seen in features like
staircases within a home. They introduce a dynamic and energetic feel to the space.
• Curved Lines: Curved lines have a graceful, feminine quality, suggesting subtlety,
youthfulness, and flexibility. They are evident in items like tie-back curtains, elegant
furniture carvings, and certain architectural elements such as arched doorways and
circular ceiling designs. To achieve a feminine effect, incorporate more curved lines
through decor and architectural details.
• Zigzag Lines: These lines are dynamic and sometimes unsettling, used to create a sense
of movement and direction. While visually striking, they should be balanced with
appropriate colors to avoid overwhelming the space.

In interior decoration, straight lines are perceived as intellectual and classic, often carrying
a more severe and masculine feel. Conversely, curves can introduce a joyful, subtle richness
but must be used judiciously to avoid appearing weak or unstable. Diagonal and zigzag
lines, with their pronounced activity and restlessness, should be used sparingly in homes to
prevent an overly dynamic and chaotic atmosphere.

8.2.1 Form and Shape:

Form is a critical element in home planning and furnishing, often regarded as the
fundamental aspect of design, encompassing area, mass, or shape. Forms can be either two-
dimensional or three-dimensional. Three-dimensional forms are solids that have length,
width, and depth, while two-dimensional forms possess only length and width, appearing
flat.

Forms are intrinsically linked with lines. For example, combining horizontal and vertical
lines results in rectangular and square forms. When vertical or horizontal lines intersect with
diagonal lines, they create triangular forms. Masculine rooms often feature a dominance of
square and oblong forms, while feminine rooms are typically characterized by oval and
circular forms. Essentially, lines give rise to two-dimensional or flat shapes, and when these
shapes gain depth, they become forms.

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For instance, a circle is a shape, while a sphere is a form; similarly, a square is a shape,
while a cube is a form. A drawing represents a flat shape, whereas a sculpture represents a
three-dimensional form.

The form of an object should be appropriate for its function and strongly influenced by the
material from which it is made. Achieving harmony in form is crucial when selecting home
furnishings, as a dominance of one type of shape or form can unify the overall design. This
coherence ensures that the furnishings work together aesthetically and functionally, creating
a balanced and pleasing interior space.

8.2.3 Texture:

Texture pertains to the surface quality or "feel" of an object, whether it is smooth, rough,
soft, and so on. It is the characteristic of a surface that determines how it feels when touched
or appears to feel when observed. Texture can be tangible, where it is physically felt by
touch, known as tactile texture, or it can be visual, where an artist's techniques create the
illusion of texture.

Textural surfaces can range from smooth to rough and from dull to shiny. Achieving a
balanced use of texture in a room is essential. Rough textures tend to absorb more light,
creating a more muted effect, while smooth surfaces reflect light, adding brightness.

In small or dark rooms, smoother textures are preferable as they help reflect light and make
the space feel larger and brighter. Conversely, larger rooms with ample natural light from
many windows can incorporate rough textures effectively without making the space feel too
dark or heavy.

In a home, textures are found in various elements such as wall finishes, rugs, woodwork,
oil paintings, ceramic urns, and surfaces like wood or glass on dining tables. Each of these
elements contributes to the overall feel and atmosphere of the room, making the thoughtful
selection and balance of textures crucial for creating a harmonious and inviting interior.

8.2.3 Pattern:

Pattern refers to any form of surface decoration that can be applied to both two-dimensional
and three-dimensional objects. It adds vibrancy and interest to a room, enhancing its
aesthetic appeal.

Typically, patterns should cover about one-fourth of the total surface area in a room. A lack
of pattern can make a space feel dull, while an overabundance can make it feel chaotic.
Larger rooms can handle more patterns than smaller ones. Patterns can be introduced in
interiors through elements like curtains, draperies, wallpapers, rugs, carpets, furniture
covers, and accessories. The scale of the pattern should be proportional to the size of the
room and its windows. The beauty of a pattern relies not only on well-designed motifs but
also on their proper arrangement. A pattern should convey a distinct quality, such as dignity,
tranquility, speed, or action. The character of a pattern is influenced by the direction of the
lines, the sizes and shapes of the motifs, and their relationship to the surrounding space.

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Here are key points to remember when creating a beautiful pattern:

A. Necessity for Beauty and Expression: The decoration should enhance the beauty and
expressiveness of the item or room it adorns. It should be an integral part of the design
rather than an afterthought.
B. Placement: Patterns should be positioned at natural structural points on the object being
decorated.
C. Balance: The background spaces and foreground motifs should combine to create a
pleasing overall pattern.
D. Design: The most effective designs are usually abstract or stylized.
E. Scale of the Motif: The motifs should be in proportion to the overall decoration,
ensuring harmony and balance within the design.
F. Functional Integrity: The decoration should never impede the functionality of the item
or space it decorates. Practicality should be maintained alongside aesthetics.
G. Material Compatibility: The design should complement the material it decorates. The
characteristics of the material should be taken into account to ensure a cohesive look.
H. Definite Character: The design should have a clear character, whether traditional,
modern, or otherwise. This gives the pattern a distinctive identity and purpose.
I. Simplicity: Keeping the decoration simple can often result in a more elegant and
effective pattern. Overly elaborate designs can become overwhelming and detract from
the overall appeal.
J. Joyful Expression: The design should reflect the creator’s joyful expression, appearing
natural and inspired rather than forced or contrived.
K. Stylized Designs: The best designs are typically stylized, offering an artistic
interpretation of motifs rather than a literal representation.
L. Realistic Pictorial Motifs: Realistic pictorial motifs can often result in a poor effect,
as they may not integrate as seamlessly into the overall pattern and can disrupt the visual
harmony.
M. Appropriate Coloring: The colors used should complement the pattern, enhancing its
visual appeal and coherence. Bold patterns benefit from bold colors, while subtler
patterns should use more subdued hues.

By adhering to these principles, patterns can achieve a harmonious and aesthetically

pleasing result that enhances the space or object they adorn.

Motifs: Patterns are generally created using three types of motifs or design units:

• Naturalistic Motifs: These motifs depict realistic images of natural elements such as
flowers, fruits, plants, animals, humans, and natural sceneries. They aim to replicate the
beauty of nature as accurately as possible.
• Stylized Motifs: Stylized motifs represent natural objects but in a more abstract and
simplified manner. They do not directly resemble the natural objects they are inspired
by; instead, they interpret these objects in a unique and often artistic way, adding a
creative flair to the design.
• Geometric Motifs: These motifs are derived from basic geometric shapes such as
circles, triangles, cones, squares, and rectangles. They are based on pure forms and are
often used to create a sense of order, symmetry, and structure in a pattern.

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8.2.4 Color:

Color is a vital and highly influential element of art, often considered the most dominant
due to its universal appeal and ability to enhance the beauty of interiors and environments.
Color results from light reflected off objects, revealing their hues. White light from the sun
comprises all colors of the spectrum: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet.

To use color effectively, one must understand its characteristics, nature, and language, as
colors evoke various emotions and create sensations of warmth or coolness. Different
professions approach the study of color uniquely—physiologists, chemists, physicists, and
psychologists each have their perspectives. However, homemakers and interior decorators
focus on practical applications in home furnishing.

As home science specialists, it's crucial to know popular color names, differentiate between
warm and cool colors, and understand advancing and receding colors and their effects.
Additionally, knowledge of various color theories, color schemes, and the principles of
design in using color for interiors is essential, blending art and science. Different colors are
employed to produce various effects or express different emotions, significantly influencing
the mood and atmosphere of a space.

8.2.5 Light:

Light is an essential element of art that serves both practical and decorative purposes. Proper
lighting can transform a house, making it warm, friendly, lively, or restful. Conversely, poor
lighting can result in a dull or overly bright interior, potentially harming health and safety.
Excessive light can cause physical exhaustion, while inadequate light can create a
depressing atmosphere. The way light is used greatly influences emotional responses,
impacting perceptions of color, texture, shape, form, and line.

Daylight plays a crucial role in the appearance of a room, and no decoration plan should
overlook the number of windows, the amount of sunlight entering the room, any
obstructions like trees or creepers, and the most frequent season of room usage. Movable
curtains are essential to control the light level, allowing occupants to adjust it to their needs.

Modern artificial lighting, especially electric light, offers significant functional benefits and
serves as a versatile decorative tool. It can highlight important areas with bright light while
leaving less significant areas in shadow, creating contrast and emphasis. Additionally,
lighting can introduce rhythm and continuity in a room by connecting various focal points,
enhancing the overall aesthetic and functional appeal of the space.

8.2.6 Space:

Space, in design and architecture, isn't just about the physical area a structure occupies, but
also the background against which we perceive it. When organizing space, like in modern
architecture or interior design, it's about creating a sense of beauty and balance. This often
means favoring simplicity, with large, unadorned surfaces that enhance the feeling of
openness.

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Appreciating space encourages minimalism in furniture, allowing for quiet, empty areas
within rooms. The current trend leans towards openness and fluidity within a house,
achieved through fewer walls and larger openings between rooms.

This blurs the distinction between indoor and outdoor spaces, often through features like
glass walls or spacious porches. In landscaping, similar principles apply, where the designer
arranges outdoor space to seamlessly integrate with the house, creating a harmonious and
functional environment.

Overall, the emphasis is on creating living spaces that feel expansive, connected, and
inviting.

8.3 Principal of Design:

Since ancient times, humans have drawn inspiration from nature to create beautiful
environments. Over time, they mastered fundamental artistic concepts such as color, form,
texture, and pattern.

These elements became the foundation for various art forms, including painting, sculpture,
architecture, and handicrafts. With the progress of science and technology, design has
evolved significantly, leading to the emergence of specialized fields like interior design,
architecture, graphic design, animation, printing, and photography.

Central to these fields are the principles of design, which, while not prescriptive formulas
for beauty, provide a framework for evaluating the artistic quality of an object. The five
major principles of design are proportion, balance, rhythm, harmony, and emphasis. These
principles must be applied to the elements of art to create aesthetically pleasing interiors
and effective designs.

8.3.1 Proportion:

A. Meaning of Proportion in Design:

Proportion in design refers to the relationship in size, quantity, or degree between the
different elements within a design. It ensures that these elements work together
harmoniously, creating a visually pleasing and functional outcome.

Proportion can be considered as the comparison of dimensions or distribution of forms and

is essential for achieving balance, harmony, and unity in a design. The principle of
proportion is sometimes referred to as the "law of relationships" because it deals with the
relationships between different elements within a design.

The ancient Greeks were pioneers in creating space relationships for beauty. They
formulated rules based on the proportions of the human body and space. They used the
Golden Ratio, approximately 1:1.618, and the "golden oblong," a ratio of about 2:3, 3:5,
5:8, and so on, for space divisions. For solids, they used a ratio of about 5:7:11.

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a. Dividing Space:

Space can be divided into more than two parts using lines or objects:

● All spaces may differ (Fig. A).

● All spaces may be alike (Fig. B).
● A combination where some spaces vary, and others repeat (Figs. C and D).

Practical Applications:

➢ Arrangements:

● Arranging objects and establishing space relationships, such as accessories with

furniture.
● Grouping objects within larger groups, like photo arrangements.

➢ Illusion of Space:

● Lines can create illusions to alter proportions.

● Horizontal lines add width, while vertical lines add height.
● For example, vertical hanging pictures emphasize height.

b. Scale and Unity:

➢ Scale:

Scale refers to the capacity to select and arrange objects so that they look well together.
Both proportion and scale deal with the relative sizes of things:

● All elements should have a consistent, pleasing relationship to each other and the overall
structure.
● The size of the structure should be in good proportion to the different objects within it.

Example:

An architect applies scale principles when designing windows, doors, arches, and roofs,
ensuring everything is in scale and looks pleasant.

Similarly, furniture designers ensure that furniture pieces are in scale with the room and
with each other.

➢ Unity:

Unity describes the relationship between the individual parts and the whole of a
composition. It ties different parts together to give a sense of wholeness:

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● When all parts are in perfect scale, unity is achieved.

● In home furnishings, each article must be in scale with the room and other furnishings
to provide a unified appearance.

B. Types of Proportion in Design:

• Mathematical Proportion: This involves precise numerical ratios. Common examples

include the golden ratio (approximately 1:1.618) and the rule of thirds, which are often
used to create aesthetically pleasing compositions.
• Visual Proportion: This type focuses on how elements look in relation to each other.
It may not always follow strict mathematical ratios but instead relies on visual balance
and the designer's intuition.
• Scale Proportion: This involves the size relationship between objects. It is particularly
important in architecture and interior design, where the scale of furniture and fixtures
must be appropriate for the space.
• Formal Proportion: This refers to the organized structure of a design, ensuring all
elements are proportionally related. It often involves symmetry and balance.

C. Importance of Proportion in Design:

• Aesthetic Appeal: Proper proportion creates a sense of harmony and beauty in a design.
Well-proportioned elements look balanced and pleasing to the eye.
• Functionality: In design fields like architecture and interior design, proportion ensures
that spaces and objects are usable and comfortable. For example, furniture that is in
proportion to the room size will fit well and provide comfort.
• Balance and Unity: Proportion helps in achieving a balanced design where no single
element overwhelms the others. This balance contributes to a unified and cohesive look.
• Focus and Emphasis: Proportion can be used to draw attention to specific parts of a
design. For instance, a larger element can act as a focal point, guiding the viewer's eye
to important areas.
• Emotional Response: Proportion influences how a design is perceived emotionally.
Well-proportioned designs can evoke feelings of tranquility and satisfaction, while
poorly proportioned designs can cause discomfort and unease.

D. Practical Applications of Proportion in Design:

• Architecture: Proportion is critical in architectural design to ensure that buildings are

not only aesthetically pleasing but also structurally sound and functional. The
relationship between height, length, and width of a building and its components must
be carefully considered.
• Interior Design: In interior design, proportion affects the arrangement of furniture and
decor. A well-proportioned room will have furniture that fits the space appropriately,
ensuring comfort and functionality.
• Graphic Design: Proportion in graphic design involves the relationship between text,
images, and white space. Properly proportioned elements create a clean and readable
layout.

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• Fashion Design: Proportion in fashion design is about the relationship between

different parts of a garment and how they relate to the human body. Well-proportioned
clothing enhances the wearer’s appearance and ensures comfort.
• Landscape Design: In landscape design, proportion is used to ensure that plants,
structures, and pathways are in harmony with the size of the garden and the surrounding
environment.

By understanding and applying the principle of proportion, designers can create works that
are not only beautiful but also functional and emotionally resonant.

8.3.2 Balance:

Goldstein and Goldstein defined balance as rest or repose. This restful effect is achieved by
grouping shapes and colors around a center in such a way that there are equal attractions on
each side of that central point.

Balance in weights can be easily understood: equal weights will balance when they are at
the same distance from the center. If the weights are unequal, the heavier weight must be
moved closer to the center and the lighter weight further from it to achieve balance.

In art, balance is as simple to explain as balance in weights. The difference lies in the fact
that balance in art is not about the actual weight of objects but how much attention they
attract.

Balance is the arrangement of objects in a design concerning their visual weight within a
composition. Balance typically manifests in three forms: symmetrical, asymmetrical, and
radial.

A. Symmetrical or Formal Balance:

Formal or symmetrical balance is quiet, dignified, and gives a sense of precision. It occurs
when the visual weight of a composition is evenly distributed around a central, vertical, or
horizontal axis, usually with identical forms on both sides of the axis. This is also known as
formal balance.

Example: Identical lamps on either side of a bed.

B. Asymmetrical or Informal Balance:

Asymmetrical balance happens when the visual weight of a composition is not evenly
distributed around a central axis. It involves arranging objects of different sizes in such a
way that they balance each other out through their respective visual weights. Often, a
dominant element balances multiple smaller elements, creating a composition that tends to
have greater visual interest. This type of balance is also known as informal or occult balance.

Example: Grouping a large picture with several smaller pictures.

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C. Radial Balance:

Radial balance occurs when elements are arranged around a central point, resulting in a
circular symmetry.

Examples: Petals of a flower, spokes of a wheel, chairs around a circular dining table,
motifs arranged in a circular fashion.

D. Formal vs. Informal Balance:

• Formal balance is more intellectual and passive. It provides a sense of order and
precision.
• Informal balance combines intellect and feeling. It is more subtle, creative, and offers
greater variety and intimacy in arrangements.

The type of balance in interior design impacts the emotional effect of a space.

E. Application in Furniture Arrangement:

Balance is crucial in furniture arrangement. It is achieved by placing a large piece of

furniture on one wall and balancing it with an opening or another large piece on the opposite
wall.

Start by placing the large pieces to balance the centers of interest in the room, then arrange
smaller movable objects to create convenient conversation groups and balanced units.

A well-balanced room will have approximately equal visual attraction on opposite walls,
resulting in a harmonious and visually appealing space.

8.3.3 Rhythm: The Principle of Movement and Flow in Design:

Rhythm is an essential principle in art and design, where it creates a sense of order, grace,
and smooth movement for the viewer's eye, much like the experience of listening to a
musical note.

Goldstein H. and Goldstein V. define rhythm as a form of movement, emphasizing an

organized, continuous flow that guides the eye through a composition.

A. Definition and Importance:

Rhythm in design refers to a visual tempo or beat, a sequence that leads the viewer's eye
across a space or composition in a connected and harmonious manner.

It ensures that the eye moves effortlessly from one element to another, creating a cohesive
and engaging visual experience.

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B. Methods of Achieving Rhythm:

• Repetition of Shapes:

Rhythm through repetition involves the consistent use of similar elements, such as lines,
shapes, or colors, at regular intervals. However, it is essential to avoid monotony by varying
spacing and proportions.

There are different types of rhythmic repetition:

o Regular Rhythm: Occurs when intervals between elements are uniform. This type of
rhythm is predictable and stable but can become monotonous if overused.

Example: A row of identical columns in a building.

o Flowing Rhythm: Mimics natural, organic movement, giving a sense of continuity and
grace.

Example: The wavy pattern of a curtain or the flowing design of a garden pathway.

o Progressive Rhythm: Involves a sequence where each element slightly changes,

creating a sense of progression.

Example: A series of picture frames on a wall that increase or decrease in size

progressively.

• Gradation:

Gradation introduces a gradual change in size, color, texture, or spacing, creating a rhythmic
flow. This technique avoids abrupt changes, making the transition smooth and visually
appealing.

Example: A gradient color scheme that transitions from dark to light or a series of shapes
that gradually increase in size.

• Continuous Line Movement:

Using continuous lines or curves in a composition creates a smooth and uninterrupted path
for the eye. This method can produce dynamic and fluid movements.

Example: The spiral of a seashell or the curves of a well-designed staircase.

• Radiation:

Rhythm through radiation involves organizing elements around a central point, creating a
radiating pattern that draws the eye outward in a balanced and harmonious manner.

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Example: The arrangement of petals in a flower or the spokes of a wheel.

• Practical Applications:
➢ Interior Design:

Rhythm is crucial in interior design, where it can be applied through various methods to
create a cohesive and engaging space.

o Furniture Arrangement: Placing furniture in a rhythmic order can guide the

movement within a room. It is important to consider each piece's line movement before
arranging them.

Example: Arranging chairs and tables in a living room so that the eye moves smoothly from
one piece to the next, creating a sense of flow.

o Lighting Fixtures: The placement of lighting fixtures can enhance rhythmic movement
in a room.

Example: A series of pendant lights hung at regular intervals over a kitchen island.

➢ Patterns and Textures:

Rhythm can be found in the patterns of floor tiles, wallpaper, and fabrics. These elements
can introduce rhythmic movement to a space, making it visually interesting.

Example: A wallpaper with a repeating floral pattern that guides the eye across the wall, or
floor tiles arranged in a herringbone pattern.

➢ Wall Hangings and Art:

The selection and arrangement of wall hangings, pictures, and other artworks can create
rhythm through continuous line movement.

Example: Hanging pictures in a staggered arrangement to lead the eye from one piece to
the next or using a series of wall hangings with similar themes and colors to create a
rhythmic sequence.

➢ Curtains and Draperies:

Curtains and draperies with rhythmic designs can enhance the overall rhythm in a room.

Example: Draperies with a flowing wave pattern that guides the eye across the fabric,
adding a sense of movement and elegance to the space.

Rhythm is a vital principle in design, creating an engaging and harmonious visual

experience.

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By understanding and applying methods such as repetition, gradation, continuous line

movement, and radiation, designers can achieve rhythmic movement that enhances the
overall aesthetic and functionality of a space. Proper use of rhythm, combined with balance,
proportion, and scale, leads to a cohesive and pleasing design that captivates the viewer.

8.3.4 Emphasis: The Principle of Drawing Attention in Design:

Emphasis is a fundamental principle in design that ensures there is a focal point or a

dominant element in any arrangement.

This principal guide designer to highlight a particular area or feature to catch the viewer's
eye. Goldstein H. and Goldstein V. describe emphasis as the principle that draws the eye to
the most significant part of a design first, before leading it to other details in order of their
importance.

A. Key Aspects of Emphasis:

a. What to Emphasize:

The designer must determine what elements in their design are most important. This could
vary depending on the purpose and context of the design. A crucial rule to remember is that
backgrounds should be less noticeable than the objects meant to stand out against them.

Example: In a living room, the designer might choose to emphasize a fireplace as the central
focal point. This would mean ensuring that the fireplace is the most visually striking feature,
perhaps through its design, color, or placement.

b. How to Emphasize:

There are several techniques for creating emphasis in a design:

• By Placing or Grouping Objects: Grouping objects of similar size, shape, color, or

texture can create a focal point.

Example: In a living room, arranging a set of chairs around a coffee table creates a focal
point. Similarly, grouping pictures on a wall can draw attention to that specific area.

• By Using Contrasts of Color: The eye is naturally drawn to contrasts. Using strong
contrasts of light and dark or contrasting colors can make an object stand out.

Example: A brightly colored vase placed against a neutral wall will stand out and draw
attention. Similarly, a dark object against a light background will be more noticeable.

• By Using Plain Background Space Around Objects: An object becomes more

prominent when it is surrounded by plain space, separating it from other elements.

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Example: A piece of artwork on a plain, uncluttered wall will stand out more than if it were
surrounded by other decorations. The plain background accentuates the artwork, making it
the focal point.

• By Contrasting or Using Unusual Lines, Shapes, or Sizes: Using unique or

unexpected lines, shapes, or sizes can create emphasis.

Example: A uniquely shaped lamp in a room with conventional furniture will naturally
draw the eye. Similarly, a large, bold sculpture in a garden will become a focal point due to
its size and form.

c. How Much to Emphasize:

The degree of emphasis required varies with each design. Generally, it’s best to keep things
simple and avoid overemphasis, which can lead to clutter and confusion.

Example: In a bedroom, the bed might be the main focal point. While the bed should stand
out, the emphasis should not be so strong that it overwhelms the rest of the room's design.
A simple, well-designed headboard and complementary bedding can create the right amount
of emphasis.

d. Where to Emphasize: The placement of the focal point is crucial. For objects to be
seen from all sides, they should be centrally placed with equal borders on all sides.

Example: A centerpiece on a dining table, such as a bowl of flowers, should be centrally

located so that it is visible and attractive from all angles.

For designs viewed from a vertical position, the object should be placed slightly above the
center to ensure it is within the viewer's line of sight.

Example: A painting hung on a wall should be at eye level, with slightly more space below
it than above it, ensuring it is prominently visible.

B. Practical Application:

In interior design, emphasis helps to create a balanced and harmonious space by drawing
attention to key elements while ensuring the overall design remains cohesive and pleasing.

Example: In a living room, a designer might use a large, colorful rug as the focal point. The
furniture would be arranged around the rug to enhance its prominence. To ensure balance,
the surrounding walls and furniture might be kept in neutral tones, allowing the rug to stand
out without overwhelming the space.

The principle of emphasis ensures that there is a clear point of interest in any design, guiding
the viewer's attention in a controlled and aesthetically pleasing manner.

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By thoughtfully determining what to emphasize, how to emphasize it, how much emphasis
to use, and where to place the emphasis, designers can create visually engaging and balanced
environments.

8.3.5 Harmony: The Principle of Unified Design:

Harmony is a key principle in design that ensures all elements within a piece of art or
arrangement work together to create a cohesive, pleasing appearance.

It involves the careful selection and arrangement of elements so that they appear consistent
and unified.

A. Key Aspects of Harmony:

a. Harmony of Lines:

Lines in a composition can be categorized into three main types to achieve harmony:

• Harmony through Repetition: Repeating similar lines within a design creates a sense
of order and unity.

Example: In a living room, the repetition of horizontal lines in the design of the sofa, the
coffee table, and the shelves can create a harmonious look.

• Harmony in Lines that Contrast: Contrasting lines can also create harmony when
used thoughtfully. Horizontal and vertical lines, when combined, provide balance
through their opposition.

Example: A room with vertical lines from tall bookshelves contrasted with horizontal lines
from a long couch creates visual interest while maintaining harmony.

• Harmony through Transition: Transitional lines gently connect different elements,

softening and integrating them into the overall design.

Example: Curved lines in a rug or a piece of artwork can transition smoothly between the
linear elements of a room, like rectangular furniture and straight-edged walls.

b. Harmony of Shapes:

Combining different lines results in shapes, and these shapes must relate harmoniously to
one another.

Example: In a dining room, a rectangular table paired with oval chairs can create a pleasing
balance. The oval chairs introduce softer, transitional lines that complement the more rigid
rectangle of the table.

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 Elements and Principle of Art and Design

c. Harmony in Arrangements:

The placement of objects within a space should follow an orderly arrangement to achieve
harmony.

Example: In a living room, larger furniture like sofas and cabinets should align with the
boundaries of the room. Smaller items, like decorative statues or plants, can be placed at
varying angles to add interest without disrupting the overall harmony.

B. Practical Examples of Harmony in Design:

a. Furniture Arrangement:

In a bedroom, placing the bed as the central focus and arranging nightstands and dressers in
alignment with the walls creates a harmonious space. Smaller items, like lamps or books,
can be placed at slight angles to add variety without breaking the harmony.

b. Decorative Elements:

In a hallway, arranging a series of framed photos in a grid pattern creates repetition and
harmony. Adding a few frames of different sizes or shapes can introduce subtle variation
while maintaining a cohesive look.

c. Color Harmony:

Using a consistent color palette throughout a room helps unify the space.

Example: In a kitchen, using shades of blue for cabinets, tiles, and accessories creates
harmony. Contrasting elements, like white countertops and stainless-steel appliances, can
add interest without disrupting the overall color harmony.

d. Texture Harmony: Combining different textures can enhance harmony in a design.

Example: In a living room, a soft wool rug, a leather couch, and wooden side tables can all
work together if their textures complement each other. The softness of the rug, the
smoothness of the leather, and the grain of the wood create a unified tactile experience.

Harmony in design ensures that all elements within a space or piece of art work together to
create a unified, pleasing appearance.

By carefully considering lines, shapes, arrangements, colors, and textures, designers can
achieve a harmonious effect that is both visually appealing and functional.

Whether through repetition, contrast, or transition, the goal is to create a cohesive and
balanced environment that feels natural and inviting.

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8.4 Conclusion:

Figure 8.1: Art Design Art Interconnected

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 Elements and Principle of Art and Design

Art and design are interconnected yet distinct disciplines that shape human experiences and
environments. By, nature, these principles overlap and intertwine to form the whole of a
visual composition. It’s nearly impossible to discuss one of these principles without
referencing others. Art, is the expression of creativity, emotion, and imagination through
various mediums such as painting, sculpture, and music. It serves as a means of
communication, reflecting cultural values, personal insights, and social commentary.
Design, on the other hand, is the process of planning and creating objects, systems, or
structures with a functional purpose in mind. It merges aesthetics with utility, aiming to
enhance user experience and solve practical problems. While art prioritizes personal and
subjective expression, design emphasizes usability and practicality, making both essential
in enriching and navigating our world.

8.5 Reference:

1. https://api.pageplace.de/preview/DT0400.9781000563283_A42644336/preview-
9781000563283_A42644336.pdf
2. https://dx.doi.org/10.29121/shodhkosh.v4.i2ECVPAMIAP.2023.709
3. Plessis.A. du,2022, Principal of Art- Understanding the principle of design in Art
https://artincontext.org.
4. https://www.artistsnetwork.com/art-techniques/composition/15-elements-and-
principles-of-
art/#:~:text=Rhythm%2C%20harmony%2C%20balance%2C%20contrast,are%20the
%20principles%20of%20art
5. Elements & Principles | sandburgart. (n.d.). Sandburgart.
https://www.sandburgart.com/elements-principles

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