Five Elements of Art Explained

In a previous article line was discussed as one ofconstruction of the sense of touch without
the basic elements in art. The others are shape,actually touching the object being observed. This
value, texture, volume or mass, and color. Eachsense of implied touch occurs because of those
of these may receive the artist's emphasis, but allexperiences you have had. You are creating your
are always present if the work is to beconcept of a reality when this happens. And it is
considered a work of art. And that considerationillusion.
is the key.Volume or mass is the fifth art element and it is
Shape as an art element is defined as any areawhat suggests dimensionality, specifically depth.
that has identifiable boundaries. Generally, theseMass is sometimes considered as a separate
boundaries are defined by lines, however it mayelement because it suggests weight. In painting
be indicated in other ways. For example, an edgeweight cannot be seen. Sculpture on the other
between one color and other indicates shape. Ahand uses mass. Yet, even two dimensional
division between dark and light areas definesurfaces can be made to give a sense of volume.
boundaries of shape. In dance, shape is designatedThis is accomplished by space, placement of
by body movements within a given area. This isobjects, and color.
especially true in modern dance.The final element of art is color. Despite the fact
Value is the third element of art, the first beingthat nearly everyone knows what color is, it still
line and the second being shape. Value is thecauses problems. Among the chief reasons for
subtle difference between light and dark areas.this difficulty is individual differences in seeing
The two extremes of value are black and white.colors and the names of colors. Involved in color
And between these two extremes of value areis hue, tint, shade, saturation, primary and
many ranges. In a painting, shadows or darksecondary, and complementary colors. Color's
colors indicate the dark areas. Highlights are shownpsychological impact on the viewer is significant.
by lighter values. In theater as well as film, lightingWhen married to line, these five elements, shape,
is used to create value.value, texture, volume, and color come together
The fourth element of texture is unique. Itto form composition, the subject of a future
involves two of our senses. Sight identifies thearticle.
nature of the texture and stimulates our mental