The Elements of ArtJust as there are basic kinds of words (such as nouns and

verbs) there are basic kinds of art elements (visual symbols). All artists have the same elements of art with

which to work with. These are line, shape and form, space, color, value and texture.

These are the building blocks or ingredients that an artist puts together to create a work of art. No matter how an

artwork is made, it will contain some or all of these elements.

If we want to make art, we need to understand these elements of art. They also help us understand, appreciate and enjoy art.

VALUE

Describes the lightness or darkness of a color/ object.

MC Escher Pablo Picasso

Value helps an artist who works 2D (flat drawing or painting) achieve the “look” of 3D in their subjects or objects

The Value ScaleDark -------------------------------------------------------Light---------------------- White

The simple value scale, note the range of colors from black to white and the many shades in between.

GRADATION: using step by step changes in a gradual way.

Blending

Stipple

Hatching

Cross Hatching

Achieving Shading Through…

Student Example

Add Roundness to a 2D shape and transform it into a 3D form by shading and providing a light source.

Light Sources on Forms coming from the Right

Cast Shadow- the dark area on the side of the object where the light is blocked by the object. This rendering is reflected on the surface.

In the drawing below, the artists uses value to distinguish between what looks realistic and what looks like a simple contour line drawing of his hands.