VOCABULARY / CORE STUDIO I

  • Shape- A flat, enclosed area or 3D volume/form
  • Format- The first shape we recognize in the composition
  • Positive/Negative – The “figure”, or recognizable shape, and its surrounding space, aka the “ground”. They share an equal relationship. 
  • Figure/Ground Reversal- When both positive and negative shapes command your attention.
  • Rectilinear-Shapes made from straight lines and angular corners
  • Curvilinear-Shapes dominated by flowing, curved edges
  • Geometric –Precise shapes with mathematical sides and consistent curves.
  • Organic-Shapes that represent natural forms typically found in nature.
  • Overlapping can create the illusion of spatial depth.
  • Unity is achieved by using similar shapes
  • Variety can be defined as difference and creates a more unique composition
  • Composition - Combining multiple parts into a cohesive whole
  • Containment -The unifying force created by the edge of a composition
  • Grouping - Making order and connections between separate visual elements
  • Repetition - Using the same visual element over and over
  • Focal Point - Compositional device used to hold viewer’s attention or to direct focus
  • Balance -Distribution of weight, physical or visual
  • Asymmetry - Does not mirror itself on either side of an axis.
  • Symmetrical - Mirrors itself on either side of an axis
  • Approximate - Similar imagery appears on either side of an axis
  • Radial - Centered focal point and mirrors itself horizontally and vertically
  • Line - is the simplest and most versatile of the elements of design. A line can be defined as a “point” in motion, a connection between points, or a series of implied points.
  • Orientation - refers to a line’s position (horizontal, vertical, diagonal, etc.)
  • Diagonal lines - imply energy and motion while horizontal lines imply stability. Vertical lines can imply directional movement.
  • Direction – is the implied movement of a line. Line weight can accentuate direction by suggesting motion.
  • Continuity -  is often referred to as linear flow. Continuous lines create a strong connection between spaces and create a stronger sense of direction.
  • Contour lines - are often used to describe edges of forms.
  • Gesture drawing - with lines can develop a composition arrangement that will become the “foundation” upon which the final piece is built.