The Principles of Design
WEDNESDAYS:
APRIL 23, APRIL 30, MAY 7, MAY 14, MAY 21, MAY 28
10:00 a.m. to Noon
AGES: 13+
INSTRUCTOR: Robert Smith
The Principles of Design are guidelines artists use to create visually engaging and dynamic works of art. The six studio sessions explore balance and emphasis, movement, contrast, rhythm, pattern, and unity and variety. Learning to employ these principles will help you create successful works as well as interpret and appreciate others’ art more accurately.
COST: $210 GVA Members / $240 Non-Members or $40 Single Session
Biography: Robert Smith taught visual arts for the past 31 years in middle school, high school and technical college classrooms. When not in the studio, he likes spending time with his wife and two sons. His interests beyond art include cooking, fishing, and travel. He now enjoys teaching at GVA.
MATERIALS
Sketchbook mixed media (9x12)
Drawing Pencils 4B 6B 8B
Charcoal pencil (1 black, 1 white)
Large eraser
Blending Stump
Black ballpoint pen
Black felt tip pen (fine point)
Colored pencil set (12 count)
Marker set (12 count)
Watercolor set (8 colors)
Multipurpose brushes (flats and rounds of various sizes)
Crayons (8 count)
SESSION 1: April 23 | Balance and Emphasis
Balance: The visual equalization of elements. Learn the three kinds of balance: symmetrical, asymmetrical, and radial.
Emphasis: The opposition of elements. Attain emphasis by using opposing sizes and shapes, contrasting colors and other means to place greater attention on certain areas, objects, or feelings in a work of art.
SESSION 2: April 30 | Movement
Movement: Arrange the parts of your work to create movement of one’s eye through the piece.
SESSION 3: May 7 | Contrast
Contrast: Contrast creates interest. Through differences in values, colors, textures, and other elements, you can achieve emphasis and interest.
SESSION 4: May 14 | Rhythm
Rhythm: Purposeful repetition of lines, shapes, or colors creates movement in an artwork that is described as rhythm.
SESSION 5: May 21 | Pattern
Pattern: Combinations of lines, colors, and shapes are used to show real or imaginary things. Patterns also arise from repeats of line, shape, or color.
SESSION 6: May 28 | Unity and Variety
Unity: The sense of oneness or wholeness in a work of art.
Variety: The use of different elements to create visual interest.
