Contrast

“Variety assumes difference and contrast in a work of art is achieved through the juxtaposition of objects or elements that exhibit notable differences from one another. (page 198)

“Contrast in the service of the design principle of variety typically consists of a limited number of dramatically different elements places in proximity to one another so that the differences are stunning.” (page 200)

(Foundations of Art and Design, Lois Fichner-Rathus, Thomson Learning. Inc., 2008)

Line: vertical, diagonal, horizontal

Use a variety of line qualities – for instance delicate, thin line along with thick, undulating lines, or directional lines – for contrast. 

Shape; organic vs. geometric

Mix up the types of shapes you are using, in addition to their size

Color: red vs green

Experiment with how colors look in close proximity.  Do you want subtle harmony or dramatic impact?

Value: light vs. dark

The two terms for value in artwork are chiaroscuro (the use of light and dark values) and tenebrism (the extremely dramatic use of light and dark values).

Texture: rough vs. smooth; dense vs. delicate

Whether working with textural illusion or actually mixing up textures, use variety.

Simultaneous Contrast

When two different colors come into direct contact, the contrast intensifies the difference between them.

Keep Them Guessing

You want to intrigue your audience. What will s/he do next? Keep them coming back for more!

In Dovima with Elephants

Noted photographer Richard Avedon presented his own version of “Beauty and the Beast(s)” by posing a fames fashion model – resplendent in Christian Dior haute couture – before a group of circus elephants.  The model’s smooth, ivory skin versus the wrinkled gray hides of the elephants, her fluid and graceful arm movements versus the awkward confinement of their chained legs; her elegance and civilization versus there clumsiness and animal nature.  Avedon often illustrated the contrast between youth and aging in his photographs, and the variety through contrast in Dovima with Elephants may suggest the transitory nature of beauty and inevitability of physical change with the onset of old age