Final answer:
The principles of design, including unity, variety, and balance, govern how elements of a composition work together to achieve unity and coherence. Artists use these principles alongside elements of art to create visually impactful and cohesive artworks.
Step-by-step explanation:
The principle governing how elements of a composition work together to create a sense of unity and coherence is rooted in the principles of design. These principles, such as unity, variety, balance, emphasis, and harmony, guide artists in creating compositions that have visual impact and hold the viewer's interest. By carefully planning and arranging the elements of art—like line, shape, color, and texture—artists achieve a composition that feels complete and cohesive. The interplay between these elements and principles results in works of art that are sensorially pleasing and communicate the intended message or mood. Composition is crucial, as all the individual components must be organized to create a harmonious whole, much like a conductor unites various instruments to form a symphony.
Importance of Understanding Principles of Composition
An artist's understanding of these principles is essential for producing good artwork. Knowledge of composition allows for a methodical approach to art, facilitating rhythm and movement within the work, drawing the viewer in. Even when artists choose to bend or ignore these rules, it's often done with an understanding of their effect—experimenting with new forms of expression while maintaining a handle on the visual communication desired.