The elements of art are the basic components used to create visual art, while the principles of design are the rules and guidelines for organizing those elements. Think of elements as the building blocks and principles as the construction plan that make up the COMPOSITION. The Composition is how the elements on the page make your eye flow along the page/canvas/3D Form.

Here's a breakdown:

Elements of Art:

• Line: A continuous mark on a surface, used to define shapes, create movement, or indicate direction. 

• Shape: A two-dimensional area enclosed by lines, such as geometric shapes (squares, circles) or organic shapes (natural forms). 

• Form: A three-dimensional shape, having length, width, and depth, like a sphere or cube. 

• Color: The visual perception of light reflected from an object, determined by hue, saturation, and value. 

• Value: The lightness or darkness of a color, creating contrast and depth. 

• Texture: The surface quality of an object, either real (actual texture) or implied (visual representation of texture). 

• Space: The area within or around an artwork, including positive space (the area occupied by the subject) and negative space (the surrounding area). 

Principles of Design:

• Balance: The distribution of visual weight in a composition, creating a sense of stability, symmetry, or asymmetry. 

• Emphasis: Drawing attention to a particular point or element in a design, creating a focal point. 

• Proportion: The relationship between different elements in a composition, ensuring a sense of harmony and scale. 

• Movement: The way the viewer's eye is guided through a composition, creating a sense of visual flow. 

• Rhythm: The regular repetition of visual elements, creating a sense of pattern or visual pulse. 

• Unity: The sense of harmony and wholeness in a design, where all elements work together. 

• Contrast: The difference between elements in a design, creating visual interest and highlighting key areas. 

• Pattern: The repetition of elements in a predictable way, creating a visual texture or design.