Elements of Art and Principles of Design

The world of art continues to realize growth even as new technologies and advancements are put into use to allow for its enhancement. However, with all the continuing development achieved around the world in terms of fine art, some key elements have remained relatively the same over the years. The focus of this paper is based on developing an understanding of the principles of design and elements of art. This document will also
look into the analysis of the work “Nighthawks, 1942” by Edward Hopper with the aim of highlighting some of the artistic elements and design principles. This piece is one of the most recognized works of all time.
There is a distinct difference between the elements of art and the principles of design (Solso 56). However, the two are used together to bring out exquisite works of art. The interplay between elements and principles allows artists to create various visual presentations in their artistic expressions. Therefore, this means for valid and meaningful analysis of pieces of art, a person must have an understanding of the relationship between these two aspects (Solso 56).Edward Hopper did the painting in the year 1942. The piece depicts people sitting at a diner late in the night (Brommer 34). The art is considered as one of the most famous works by the artists. The restaurant representation elicits a myriad of opinions regarding the various placing and design principles. For a fact, plate-glass windows at the diner result in the spilling of light outwards to the sidewalk.
The interior light seems to emanate from more than a single bulb, and, as a result, a myriad of shadows are cast. Another outcome arising from the multiple lighting is that some spots appear to be brighter than others. This happening can be explained in the sense that the sources of light emanate from different angles (Solso 71). A closer look towards the top of the painting one can quickly notice the line of shadow that appears across the street. The origin of the shadow arises from the upper edge of the diner window.
The windows of the diner appear to be partly lit by some unseen light on the street, and the resultant effect is a projection of its light and shadow. Another visible and easily noticeable fact is the reflective nature of surfaces within the diner as a result of the bright light in the interior (Anfam, David, Edward and Sheena 93). This can be seen towards the edge of the window on the right-hand side. One notices the reflection of the vertical yellow band that is a reflection of the interior wall.
Much fainter reflections can also be single out from different places on the painting. A vivid example of the faint reflections would be; the one of the three occupants of the diner and their reflection that is created on the counter top. Conclusively, a keen individual with an eye for artistic representation must be able to discern the difference between elements of art and principles of design. This is important in allowing them to make meaningful criticism and analysis for various pieces of art. A point worth noting also, lies in the fact that art cannot be understood as a whole, but rather in bits and pieces and elements that result in the eventual comprehension of the artwork.
Works Cited
Anfam, David, Edward Hopper, and Sheena Wagstaff. Edward Hopper ; [on the Occasion of the Exhibition at Tate Modern, London, 27 May - 5 September 2004 and Museum Ludwig, Cologne, 9 October 2004 - 9 January 2005]. London: Tate Publishing, 2004. Print.
Brommer, Gerald F. Illustrated Elements of Art and Principles of Design: Hands on Activities, Full Color Reproductions, Descriptions of Each Concept. Glenview, Ill: Crystal Productions, 2010. Print.
Solso, Robert L. Cognition and the Visual Arts. Cambridge, Mass. [u.a.: MIT Press, 1999. Print.