Elements of Design and Composition

Course

This course delves into texture in both fine arts and the digital realm, utilizing images, lines, shapes, typography, and layered colors to create depth and a tactile sense. The concept of space is explored, encompassing foreground, middleground, background, and perspective, with techniques for recreating depth using basic elements. The course also covers balance and scale in composition, including understanding visual weight, achieving harmony through balanced and counterbalanced elements, and exploring symmetry and asymmetry in design.

Beginner
2 weeks
Last Updated December 2, 2023

Skills you'll learn:

Visual Design ElementsVisual design principles

Prerequisites:

No experience required

Beginner

2 weeks

Last Updated December 2, 2023

Skills you'll learn:

Visual Design Elements • Visual design principles • Canva

Prerequisites:

No experience required

Course Lessons

Lesson 1

Introduction to Texture

In this lesson, we will explore texture in fine arts and the digital art realm, creating depth and the illusion of a tactile sense through images, lines, shapes, typography, and layering colors.

Lesson 2

Introduction to Space

In this lesson, we will explore the idea of space in art: foreground, middleground, background, and perspective. And we will learn to recreate depth using basic elements.

Lesson 3

Introduction to Composition: Balance and Scale

In this lesson, we look at balance and scale in composition: understand visual weight, create harmony through balance and counterbalance of elements, and explore symmetry and asymmetry in design.

Lesson 4

Introduction to Composition: Contrast and Pattern

In this lesson, we explored contrast and patterns in brand design. We covered various types of contrast and the components of patterns dot, line & grid, followed by creating custom patterns.

Taught By The Best

Joshua Wilder Oakley

Visual Communications Professor at California State University San Francisco

Joshua Wilder Oakley is currently a Visual Communications Professor at California State University San Francisco and has also taught at the University of San Francisco. His teaching philosophy mirrors his design philosophy - make the world a better place through good design and visual problem solving. In addition to teaching, Oakley is also a Freelance Graphic Designer and Photographer.

The Udacity Difference

Combine technology training for employees with industry experts, mentors, and projects, for critical thinking that pushes innovation. Our proven upskilling system goes after success—relentlessly.

Demonstrate proficiency with practical projects

Projects are based on real-world scenarios and challenges, allowing you to apply the skills you learn to practical situations, while giving you real hands-on experience.

Gain proven experience
Retain knowledge longer
Apply new skills immediately

Top-tier services to ensure learner success

Reviewers provide timely and constructive feedback on your project submissions, highlighting areas of improvement and offering practical tips to enhance your work.