What Are Elements of Artistic Expression?
The elements of art include line, shape, form and space. Other art elements are texture, value and color. Artists create art by combining two or more of these elements with design.
Line refers to a continuous mark that is long relative to its width. It can be used to create an outline or pattern, imply movement or texture, allude to mass or volume and define a space. A shape refers to an enclosed space and is limited to the dimensions of length and width. Organic shapes have less-defined edges, while geometric shapes have clear edges. Form refers to a three-dimensional geometrical figure and the visible elements of a piece of art. Space is the distance around, between or within the components of a piece of art. Positive and negative space are both used in art.
Texture is used in three dimensional pieces of art and refers to how the piece feels to the touch. Value refers to the darkness or lightness of a color and is critical when working with only black, white and gray colors. The production of color is caused by light striking an object and reflecting back to the eye. The three properties of color are hue, intensity and value.
