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Activity: Principles of Art - Unity and Variety

The Principles of Art (balance, contrast, emphasis, movement, pattern, rhythm, and unity/variety) represent how the Elements of Art (line, shape, color, value, form, texture, and space) are used by an artist to create a painting, drawing, or other work of art.

In this NEU To Do for Kids worksheet, learn more about the principles of UNITY and VARIETY.

  • Unity is about separate parts working together in a composition to create a feeling of “oneness.”

  • Variety adds interest by using juxtaposition and contrasting elements within the composition.

See examples of unity and variety in simple illustrations then play a word search, word scramble, and crossword puzzle to become familiar with 18 words that are related to this week’s concepts!

Download the Activity Worksheet

Credit

These activities were created in collaboration with the Neuberger Museum of Art Education Department and Diana Puglisi, Curator of Education, Youth & Adult Programs.