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SingaporeVisual ArtsQuick questions

Elements and Principles of Art

Quick questions on The principles of design explained: O-Level Art

7short Q&A pairs drawn directly from our worked dot-point answer. For full context and worked exam questions, read the parent dot-point page.

What is contrast?
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Contrast is the use of difference to create interest and energy: light against dark, large against small, smooth against rough, warm against cool, busy against empty. Strong contrast makes a work lively and dramatic and helps important areas stand out, while too little contrast can make a work feel flat and monotonous. Contrast is one of the easiest ways to make a composition more striking.
What is no focal point?
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A composition with everything equally emphasised has nowhere for the eye to rest; create emphasis so one area leads.
What is symmetry by default?
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Centring everything is the safe, often dull, choice; asymmetrical balance is usually more dynamic while still stable.
What is pattern without rhythm?
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Pure mechanical repetition can feel monotonous; varying the repetition creates a livelier rhythm.
What is q1?
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What is the difference between the elements of art and the principles of design? [2 marks]
What is q2?
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Explain two ways an artist can create a focal point (emphasis). [3 marks]
What is q3?
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Why does a composition need both contrast and unity? [3 marks]

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