| 2-D skills | Artistic and design techniques demonstrated in two-dimensional works, such as the skillful use of color, composition, and visual elements on a flat surface. |
| 3-D skills | Artistic and design techniques demonstrated in three-dimensional works, involving spatial awareness, form, volume, and the manipulation of materials in space. |
| balance | A principle of design that distributes visual weight evenly or intentionally in a composition. |
| color | The visual perception of light wavelengths, including hue, saturation, and value. |
| composition | The arrangement and organization of elements within a work of art or design. |
| connection | A principle of design that links or relates elements within a composition. |
| contrast | A principle of design that uses differences between elements to create visual interest. |
| drawing skills | Techniques and abilities demonstrated through the creation of drawings, including line work, shading, perspective, and mark-making. |
| emphasis | A principle of design that draws attention to a focal point or dominant element. |
| figure/ground relationship | The visual relationship between a primary subject and the background or surrounding space. |
| form | A three-dimensional element with volume and mass. |
| hierarchy | A principle of design that organizes elements in order of importance or visual dominance. |
| juxtaposition | A principle of design that places contrasting elements side by side for effect. |
| layer | Overlapping elements or materials placed one on top of another. |
| light and shade | The use of light and dark values to create dimension and form in drawing. |
| line | A mark or stroke that extends in one direction, used as a fundamental element in art and design. |
| mark-making | The application of marks or strokes to create visual effects and demonstrate drawing technique. |
| mass | The visual weight or bulk of a three-dimensional form. |
| movement | A principle of design that guides the viewer's eye through a composition. |
| occupied/unoccupied space | The relationship between solid forms and the empty space surrounding or within them. |
| opacity | The quality of being opaque or not transparent. |
| plane | A flat surface with length and width. |
| point | A basic visual element representing a location or mark in space. |
| proportion | A principle of design concerning the relative size and scale of elements in relation to each other. |
| repetition | A principle of design that repeats elements to create unity and rhythm. |
| rhythm | A principle of design that creates a pattern of repetition and variation. |
| scale | A principle of design relating to the size of elements relative to the whole composition or viewer. |
| shape | A two-dimensional area defined by edges or boundaries. |
| space | The area around, between, and within objects in a composition. |
| surface | The outer layer or plane of a work that can be manipulated through various techniques. |
| texture | The surface quality of a work that can be actual or implied through visual representation. |
| time | An element in art and design that can suggest movement, sequence, or duration. |
| transparency | The quality of allowing light to pass through so that objects behind can be seen. |
| unity | A principle of design that creates a sense of wholeness through consistency and coherence. |
| value | The relative lightness or darkness of a color or tone. |
| variety | A principle of design that introduces diversity and visual interest through different elements. |
| visual evidence | Observable elements within a work of art or design that demonstrate or support artistic decisions and relationships. |
| volume | The amount of three-dimensional space occupied by a form or mass. |