The Artist's Toolkit: Visual Elements and Principles
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Line
Shape
Color
Space
Texture

Balance
Emphasis
Movement/
Rhythm

The Artist's Toolkit: Visual Elements and Principles
EncyclopediaMovement/Rhythm

 

All of the folds and panels of this dancer's costume swirl around the figure in diagonal directions. The alternating patterns and solid colors of the costume add to the sense of movement. Tension is created by the arms swinging to the right while the dancer turns her head to the left.

Katsukawa Shunko, Nakamura Tomijuro Performing the Shishimai Dance, c. 1787, Color woodblock print, The Minneapolis Institute of Arts, Bequest of Richard P. Gale

Katsukawa Shunko
Nakamura Tomijuro Performing the Shishimai Dance
c. 1787
Color woodblock print
The Minneapolis Institute of Arts
Bequest of Richard P. Gale
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Movement is created in this print by the repetition of the shapes that represent foaming, breaking waves, the long sweeping lines of the overall shapes of the waves, and the alternating blue and white streaks on the water.

Hokusai Katsushika Published by Yohachi Nishimuraya, Under the Wave off Kanagawa, c.1829-1833, Color woodblock print, The Minneapolis Institute of Arts, Bequest of Richard P. Gale

Hokusai Katsushika Published by Yohachi Nishimuraya
Under the Wave off Kanagawa
c.1829-1833
Color woodblock print
The Minneapolis Institute of Arts
Bequest of Richard P. Gale
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In this sculpture the figures are stationary, but visual rhythm is produced by the repetitive lines and shapes.

Ijo, Duein Fobara (Ekeine Society Memorial Screen), Late 19th century, Wood, raffia, pigment, The Minneapolis Institute of Arts, The John R. Van Derlip Fund

Ijo
Duein Fobara (Ekeine Society Memorial Screen)
Late 19th century
Wood, raffia, pigment
The Minneapolis Institute of Arts
The John R. Van Derlip Fund
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Rhythm and Repetition  |  Alternating Rhythm  |  Rhythm and Movement

 
Walker Art Center The Minneapolis Institute of Arts ArtsConnectEd