Variety adds interest and options for viewers’ eyes within the composition using different elements of art.
If you eat your favorite dish without changing the menu, you will start getting bored after a few courses. If you keep repeatedly listening to the same music, even though it is your favorite, you will feel bored at some stage. That is where you require variety.
In art, too, variety is essential.
We refer to Variety inside a work of art or variety inside one single painting; it is singular.
Contents
What is Variety in Art Definition?
Variety is a principle the Artist adds to create interest by using art elements like Shapes, Colors, Lines, etc., by placing them at a different place, position, or angle in an Artwork.
The basis of the artwork adding variety to the composition may be limited if a particular theme is. Good artwork needs to have variety.
If we break the Definition of Variety, it throws the following point.
- It will create interest in the viewers
- It is created using different elements of art
- Different elements are placed in different places and positions.
Good Art is art that allows you to enter it from a variety of angles and to emerge with a variety of views.
MARY schmich
Principle of Art Variety
Principles of art are the techniques or methods by which elements of art are used in an artwork.
As mentioned above, Variety is one of the principles which can create interest in the artwork. The other 8 Principles of Art are as follows:
- Balance in Art
- Proportion in Art
- Unity in Art
- Harmony in Art
- Variety in Art
- Emphasis in Art
- Rhythm in Art
- Movement in Art
Why do artists use Variety in Artwork?
Artist uses variety in artwork to break the monotony and make the painting enjoyable by different visual elements to the viewer.
Artists induce variety in their canvas by adding different art elements close to each other. If the image majorly has short straight lines, adding long curvy lines next to it adds variety.
Warm color close to dull color adds variety. Geometric shapes close to organic shapes create variety. You can create variety in innumerable ways.
Sometimes what happens is adding too much variety will break the harmony. Similarly, explicitly adding a specific element nearby another element may also create Emphasis.
Some principles overlap, but that’s fine.

How to create Variety in Art?
Using Shapes
Using Color
Using Size for variety in art
Unity Vs Variety in Art?
Unity in art is achievable when the composition is excellent, and all elements fit together as a wholesome. The whole picture gives a more significant meaning than individual elements or parts.
The creation of unity depends on the individual style of the artists.
Also, Unity is not measurable and creates an impression in the viewer’s mind. A viewer can remember a separate object from the painting but cannot remember the concept of unity.
On the other hand, variety is attainable by adding spice to the composition creating attraction to the artwork. The kick here is something in contrast to what is already there in the painting.
Adding a curvy line along with the short straight lines creates variety.
It would help if you remembered that the artist is not creating attention to the curvy line here, and his objective is to create options or variety for the viewer. If he explicitly wants to make attention, it becomes Emphasis, another art principle.
Conclusion:
The simple solution is to add variety whenever your artwork is monotonous or dry. There is no hard and fast rule in variety; it depends on your creativity limit.
An artist may use Variety in shape and size without losing the Harmony but not Emphasize too much to Balance the artwork.
The sky is the limit for creating variations in the artwork.
Related Post
Please find below a set of Related Posts which might be of interest on the Topic of Elements of Art:
- Principles of Art – What is Balance in Art?
- Emphasis in Art: Drawing the Attention of the Viewers
- Harmony in Art: How do you Accomplish it?
- What is Movement in Art and How do Artists create it?
- How do Artists use the Eight Principles of Art?
- Proportion in Art: Basic Principle of Art to create Realism
- Principles of Art: Why is Rhythm in Art Absolutely Important?
- Unity in Art: A Wholesome Game
- Principle of Art: Create Variety in Art with various Elements
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the function of variety in art?
The primary function of variety in art is to prevent monotony. When everything looks the same, it becomes uninteresting. Variety also helps to create visual interest and depth. It also creates a mood or atmosphere or conveys a specific message or feeling.
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How can you create variety in your artwork?
One way to create variety is to experiment with different mediums, genres, and styles. Another way is to vary the use of colors and textures. You can also experiment with other art techniques and add motion and texture elements. By experimenting with these different elements, you can create a more varied and exciting piece of art.
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Why variety in art is important?
Variety in art is important because it provides a different perspective and allows people to explore different mediums. It also helps to stimulate the mind and open up new possibilities. In a world where everything seems so mundane and routine, something new and different can be a refreshing change of pace.
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Does Variety break up unity in a design?
A good designer can use variety to create a sense of unity, balance, and harmony. Too much variety, on the other hand, can quickly lead to chaos and confusion. So it’s important to use variety in moderation and to be mindful of how it impacts the overall design.
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What is the difference between variety and unity in art?
Variety uses different elements to create interest, contrast, and visual depth. Unity uses those same elements to create a sense of harmony and cohesiveness. Both are important in creating a successful piece of art.