Use lines in compositions to create a path between two points, give direction, and create motion within a composition. Lines define edges of forms and they can vary in depth, width, direction and length. Lines can lead the viewer's eye and evoke certain emotions depending on their direction within the picture plane. Horizontal lines represent a sense of space and create the illusion of a continuing space beyond the picture plane. Vertical lines, perpendicular to the earth, give a sense of height. Diagonal lines represent a feeling of motion or action.
Shapes are closed lines that define an object through two dimensions -- height and width. Forms define an object through three dimensions -- height, width and depth -- in sculptures and furniture. Shapes are either geometric or organic. Geometric shapes and forms include circles, squares, rectangles cones and spheres. Organic shapes and forms are more asymmetrical and irregular and are shapes and forms that appear in nature. Geometric and organic shapes and forms create pattern and architectural details within a composition.
Shapes and forms define space and create a sense of balance in a composition. Positive and negative space work together to create this sense of balance. Positive spaces are the actual figures, objects, shapes and forms within a piece of art. Negative space is the space that appears between the shapes and forms. It is important to use both positive and negative space in unison to create emphasis on focal points within a composition.
Color is the wavelength of light that reflects off objects. Hue refers to the name of the color in the spectrum, for example red, blue, green, purple. Value describes how light or dark a color is. Intensity describes how bright or dull a color is. Color affects emotions within a composition to evoke different moods. Using the three characteristics of color together will help to create this mood. For example, the hue of blue is a cool color, which is calming. When a dark value and dull intensity of blue are used, the hue would not only evoke a feeling of calm, but the blue would also add an air of mystery and somber feelings to the emotions of the composition.
Texture brings the sensory feeling of touch to a composition. Texture can feel rough, soft, sharp or hard depending on the technique that is used. An artist uses texture to convey how the object would actually feel in real life. Texture is used in both two-dimensional and three-dimensional works of art. Texture in a two-dimensional work can be actual or implied. For example, in a painting, layers of paint create an actual texture. To imply texture in a painting, the artist uses colors, lines and shading.