Final answer:
In the field of art and visual communication, every visually represented element derives from Form, which is the foundational concept covering the visual elements used in art. Formalism is the study of art based purely on the visual effects, principles, and elements, allowing for a deeper understanding of artwork.
Step-by-step explanation:
The class from which every visually represented element derives is the concept of Form. In the context of art and visual communication, Form represents the essential building blocks and visual elements that constitute the physical or visual structure of artwork. Understanding these elements is crucial as they function within a broader framework of principles that artists use to organize visual information and achieve a sense of visual unity. These elements are not just related to physical mediums like painting or sculpture, but also to digital and technological art forms, indicating the pervasive nature of visual elements across different artistic disciplines.
Formalism is a methodological approach that focuses on analyzing and describing artworks purely based on these visual effects, elements, and principles. It allows for a nuanced understanding of the visual language in art, which is foundational to learning about types of representation and the differences between form and content. Mastery of these concepts is critical for creating cohesive and compelling visual expressions, irrespective of the medium used.