Liberty Elementary

The seven components of art-making and design. The elements of art are the basic components of art-marking. It is impossible to create a work of art without using at least one of the seven elements of art. In order to be successful in art creation, an artist must be able to intelligently use the elements of art. Artwork can also be analyzed according to the use of the elements in a work of art.

Line

In terms of art, line is considered a moving dot or the path of a dot. Line can be used to define edges, add shading or value, and create the illusion of form.

Shape

Shape is considered a closed contour or the area confined within a contour line. Shapes fall into two categories: geometric or organic. They can be defined as positive or negative and are essential in compositional design.

Form

Form refers to three-dimensional objects. The illusion of form in a drawing or painting is heavily dependent on the use and placement of values.

Value

Value is also referred to as "tone". It is the darkness or lightness of a color and can be measured through the use of a value scale. Lighter values are referred to as "tints", while darker values are referred to as "shades". When it comes to drawing and painting, value is arguably the most important element of art.

Space

In terms of art, space is the area around, above, and within an object.  With consideration to drawings and paintings, our goal is to create the illusion of space. There are six ways that an artist can create the illusion of space in a drawing or painting.

Texture

Texture refers to the way an object feels to the touch or looks as it may feel if it were touched. Texture created in drawings or paintings can be "simulated" or "invented". The illusion of texture is heavily dependent on the use of value.

Color

Color is the element of art that refers to reflected light. Although complex, color theory can be broken down into three main components: the color wheel, color values, and color schemes.