2d design, element 2 : Direction

Two dimensional design class is more about composition than the subject, or accuracy. When I took it, I was taught that there were 7 elements and 8 principles of design.




The main phrase in this lesson is DISCORD: The highest degree of contrast that can be obtained. ( white/black, large/small, rough smooth)
 
The second element is Direction:
The two Main discords in Direction are Vertical and horizontal.  ( there are other directions  such as diagonal). Direction pulls the eye through the picture.
 

VERTICAL: Gives the impression of strength and power.
Figure 1: partial picture, ink wash on water color paper ( drawing 2, " ancient tree"by Kimberlie Grady ). notice how the tree rises up giving the feeling of aged power.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

 

 

HORIZONTAL: Gives the impression of peace, tranquility, and restfulness.

Figure2: Partial View " ancient tree" by Kimberlie Grady. Notice how the picture changed from powerful in the vertical view to tranquil in the horizontal view.

 
 
 

 
(DIAGONAL: imply action/movement)
Figure 3 and 4: Partial picture, " hummingbirds at dawn" oil on canvass, grey tones, by Kimberlie Grady. Notice how the hummingbird appears to be moving because of it's diagonal direction. The diagonal lines of the leaves also give movement to the dewdrops.

(LINEAR LINES : pull the eye through the painting) In this picture the diagonal lines of the leaves also produce linear lines directing your eyes to the hummingbird.















I hope that this basic explanation of direction helps.
All information subject to change by suggestion of instructors.
The art student.