Elements of Design

Line
Line can be considered in two ways.  The linear marks made with a pen or brush or the edge created when two shapes meet.

Shape
A shape is a self-contained defined area of geometric or organic form.  A positive shape in a painting automatically creates a negative shape.

Size
Size is simply the relationship of the area occupied by one shape to that of another.

Texture
Texture is the surface quality of a shape – rough, smooth, soft hard glossy etc.  Texture can be physical (tactile) or visual.

Colour
Also called Hue

Value (Tonal Contrast)
Value is the lightness or darkness of a colour.  Value is also called Tone.