art elements

The vocabulary or ‘language’ of art. Specifically, the formal art elements examined when both creating and analysing a work of art, and the terminology used when describing the contrast, or difference, between the formal art elements. Also included are the design principles, visual characteristics, visual communication (the artist's intent), and the ideas and terms used to describe perspective.

The formal art elements form the basis of the language of art; they consist of eight visual parts line, colour, form and shape, value, texture, space, and movement. Within each formal element there exists specific terminology that is also part of the language of art. For example, when studying line the terms outline, lines of sight, and implied lines will be encountered.

An artist will organize the formal art elements into a composition by considering the design principles, guidelines used to create certain effects. The design principles include unity, variety and harmony, emphasis, rhythm and movement, and balance. All are interdependent and part of the expressions included in the language of art. With skilful application of the design principles, it is difficult to single out the separate formal art elements and the principles used; it is this wholeness that artists usually strive for in a finished work. However, when analysing a work of art, it is these principles and elements that are considered, so an in-depth understanding of them is necessary.

The visual characteristics of a work are also a major part of the language; these attributes help to give an artwork meaning. Personal imagery, symbols, subjects, choice of medium, and the use of exaggeration or distortion enable the artist to express intent. When either creating or interpreting an artwork, the vocabulary or what is examined or discussed will always incorporate the work's signifying characteristics. In addition, visual communication, or the vocabulary surrounding the transmission of ideas, is a major part of the language. Visual communication, or the sending of an idea or message through a visual medium, is the reason behind the development of a language of art. Artistic intention, the creation of art, and the viewer's response make up the backbone of visual communication. Visual communication is heavily influenced by, among other factors, cultural issues and choice of medium. The art elements provide the means by which the artist and viewer can communicate, and an understanding of them is essential to the study of art.