with each other. For example, orange is the compliment blue, yellow, of purple and
red of green.
Composition – arrangement or design of elements of an artwork to achieve
balance, contrast rhythm, emphasis and unity to make an effective expression of an
artist's idea. The term also refers generally to any work of art.
Contrast – a large difference between two things; for example, warm and cool,
yellow and purple, light and shadow. Contrasting values, colors and textures add
excitement, emphasis and interest to a work of art.
Cool Colors – the family of related or analogous colors ranging from the greens
through the blues and violets. They remind people of cool places, things and feelings.
Depth – the apparent distance from front to back or near to far in a work of art.
Techniques of perspective are used to create the illusion of depth in a two dimensional
painting.
Design – to plan and arrange all the parts of an artwork. Also, an organized and
creative arrangement of the elements in a work of art.
Detail – a distinctive feature of an object or scene which can be seen most clearly
close up. Also, a small part of a work of art, enlarged to show a close-up of its
features.
Dominant – the part of a design that is the most important, powerful or has the
most influence. A certain color can be dominant, and so can an object, line, shape or
texture.
Elements of Art – basic components which are put together to make a visual work
of art. They are color, line, shape, texture, space, form and value. All works of art are
composed of these basic elements.
Emphasis – the use of sizes, shapes, colors, textures and other elements and principles
of design to draw attention to certain areas or objects in a work of art.
Focal Point – the most important part or area in a work of art. All other parts
should center around, provide background for, or draw attention to the focal point. It
is also called the center of interest.
Foreground – the part of a work of art that appears to be in the front, nearest to
the viewer, usually in the lower part of the picture.