Rhythm in art and design refers to a relationship between elements that creates a sense of harmony.
Rhythm can be seen in patterns, in relationships between colours and shapes, and in repetitions of lines and forms.
Rhythms help to guide the viewer's eye around a piece rather than allowing the eye to settle on a particular focal point.
There are three main types of rhythm:
- Regular rhythm – elements are repeated exactly in an evenly spaced arrangement
- Flowing rhythm – movement is suggested through repeating organic shapes or through irregular repetition of repeating elements
- Progressive rhythm – a sequence is created in which the elements are changed slightly every time they are repeated
