My Journal

Unity  in an  artwork  creates a sense of harmony and wholeness, by using similar elements within the composition and placing them in a way that brings them all together.  Variety  adds interest by using contrasting elements within the composition.

Symmetrical balance : No mirroring is used in this photograph, the two swans are just very identical and their positions make a perfect symmetrical balance. It is very relaxing to the viewer.  Asymmetrical balance : The value on the upper part is high in contrast with the low value on the bottom of the painting, the brightest part is the moon and the darkest figure (tree) is placed opposite of it to achieve balance. Radial balance : Identical and even sized eggs are placed around an ostrich egg in a bowl which shows radial balance. it is not placed in the center of the picture but the empty area is filled with a line which returns the balance.

I did a symmetrical tree for the background and added three object of different sizes : fox (big), squirrel (medium) & butterfly (small). I tried to place them in a balanced position (they make a triangle) so they're not all in one place. I gave the darkest color to the butterfly because it's the smallest and the biggest one (fox) has the most white to balance out the colors. I placed the butterfly in the bright sky so there's contrast and it's easy to see.

Balance : The arrangement and distribution of art elements to provide a visual weight in an artwork. Balance can be symmetrical, asymmetrical or radial.

I turned the original drawing (Sunset with warm colors) into a bright sunny day (with cool colors - blue and green).   Reference :  http://weheartit.com/entry/15434091

Color : It is  produced when light, striking an object is reflected back to the eye. It's properties are hue, value and intensity. Colors are also associated with emotions e.g. red is associated with energy and strength.

The color scheme is analogous. I chose the colors : Purple, blue and green.

Value : The lightness or darkness of an object regardless of color. 

http://www.fanpop.com/clubs/vampire-academy/images/18008855/title/rose-hathaway-photo

Texture : Is the look and how it feels to the touch (tactile), or you can tell just by looking (visual). E.g. Rough, smooth, hard, bumpy etc.

This picture was mainly taken to capture the soft and furry texture of this cat,  Which contrasts to the texture of the rough and hard bricks in the back. This was taken in the morning so there's a fair amount of light making it all clear to see. The picture was processed to black and white to emphasize the texture overall and to show contrast between different textures.