Guiding Question: Does it help your understanding of the creative process when you create art using the correct principles of design?

As just discussed, an understanding of the Principles of Design can foster a clearer picture of how best to express our inspirations for the creation of visual art. When we wish to express a certain genre or style, the valid or true choice of the “right” lines, patterns, depth and perspective, among other items, can more accurately depict our inner vision.

When viewing Mark Rothko’s “Number 22”, we can see a purposeful use of the Principles of Design. There is a unity of warm colors, lines and patterns. Analyzing this painting might inspire and teach us to express a similar creative vision we might hold, and the Principles of Design can aid us in both the analysis and expression.

Another example is Jacob Lawrence’s “Harriet Tubman Series, No. 4" from 1939. Again, the Principles of Design help us better understand the spirit of Harriet Tubman, the noted Civil War African American abolitionist. The linear direction and movement helps to create a transaction not only between us and Mr. Lawrence, but also between us and Harriet Tubman.

Aiding and abetting the processes of applying the Elements of Art and the Principles of Design when you are an artist, is the media you select. These media can include: Graphite pencils, crayons, colored pencils, various types of paper, and such items as glue, different types of tape, and even a stapler. Your selection of instruments and materials can support your vision for the Principles of Design you wish to use. Perhaps a certain colored pencil (either waterproofed or watercolor) might better create linear movement and pattern that a crayon and vice-versa. Different media can create different looks, depending on how they are applied. Crayons can provide more depth and texture, graphite more a colorless, black and white feeling and colored pencils can offer a range of flexibility.

Imagine for a moment if you had no background at all in the Principles of Design. Your job as both an artist and an analyzer of visual art would be much more challenging. In addition, you would not have a common language with other artists and critics, and, as you likely have discovered from your many and varied travels to host countries, it helps to know the language!

Blog/Journal Entry: Discuss with your classmates and teacher your favorite example of a drawing or painting done in perspective. Explain why this work is your favorite. What principles of design are particularly evident?