Term: Contrast

A principle of design, contrast refers to the arrangement of related elements that are different or conflicting in some way. The greater the difference between the elements the greater the contrast. Contrast is used to create visual interest, excitement and drama in artwork. For example, contrast is often created using complementary colors or extremely light and dark values in close proximity to each other. Artists can use contrast to direct the viewer's attention to and from particular points within a piece. This is possible because high contrast draws attention to an area, while low contrast does not.