The visual elements are arranged with consideration to a number of principles known as the principles of art (otherwise referred to as the principles of design or organisation).

Composition involves arranging the visual elements with guidance of the principles of art to promote the artist's statement. Unity is achieved when the artist's statement is aligned with the composition.

The principles of art are:

Rhythm: Creating a visual tempo through the use of repetitive elements.

Balance: The arrangement of elements to create a feeling of balance and stability in your painting.

Emphasis: The arrangement of elements to place emphasis on desired areas in your painting.

Gradation: A gradual change in a certain element to help connect the composition (long lines to short lines, large shapes to small shapes, dark to light tones, etc).

Harmony: Using similar elements throughout your painting to create a general sense of harmony.

Variety: Using different elements to create interest and contrast.

Movement: Creating a visual sense of movement in your painting through the placement of elements (for example, short, bold strokes in a painting would give the indication of movement and activity when used in contrast to long and muted strokes).

Proportion: The relative size of one element in comparison to another.