el·e·ment
noun
a component or constituent of a whole or one of the parts into which a whole may be resolved by analysis: Bricks and mortar are elements of every masonry wall.

prin·ci·ple
noun
a fundamental, primary, or general law or truth from which others are derived: the principles of modern physics.

The Elements of Design

These are the basic ingredients that the artist uses separately or in combination to produce artistic imagery. Their use produces the visual language of art.

• Line
• Shape
• Form
• Color
• Value
• Texture
• Space

The Principles of Design

These concepts determine how the Elements of Design are used in a composition.

• Balance
• Movement
• Rhythm
• Contrast
• Emphasis
• Pattern
• Unity