what is the principle of elaboration in design? i have seen it listed with variety and contast.

Words escape me, but here are examples ..

http://www.snobcakes.co.nz/images/wedding_gallery/daisy_dots_cc_tower_002.jpg

http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://elaboration.co.nz/Web%2520Pics/b%26w_mini_cake_tower_002.jpg&imgrefurl=http://elaboration.co.nz/wedding_cakes_gallery.htm&usg=__1vnoeHSfctdebfdEbjuJPY-a3yo=&h=412&w=395&sz=92&hl=en&start=3&sig2=NpsgTnzcZuf7Z8pgWU89kQ&um=1&tbnid=F_jbi0GxhMoICM:&tbnh=125&tbnw=120&prev=/images%3Fq%3Delaboration%2Bin%2Bdesign%2Bcakes%2Bwedding%26hl%3Den%26client%3Dfirefox-a%26rls%3Dorg.mozilla:en-US:official%26sa%3DN%26um%3D1&ei=I95kS92RMNfJlQfQsa2UCg

http://www.churchweddingdecorations.org/images/wedding-cake-floral-rose.jpg

http://faculty-web.at.northwestern.edu/art-history/werckmeister/April_29_1999/DomeSculpture.jpg

http://artmuseum.by/UserFiles/Image/smolyak-03.JPG

http://www.noutopia.com/Resources/painting_jackson_pollock.jpg

The principle of elaboration in design refers to the act of enhancing or embellishing a design or artwork by adding intricate details, decorations, or intricacies. Elaboration is focused on enriching the design by adding elements that enhance its complexity, depth, or visual interest.

When it comes to design principles, elaboration is often mentioned alongside variety and contrast because these principles work hand in hand to create visually engaging and well-balanced designs. By incorporating elaboration into a design, you can add interest and create focal points, helping to draw the viewer's attention and make the composition more visually appealing.

To apply the principle of elaboration in your design, you can consider the following techniques:

1. Intricate Details: Enhance your design by incorporating intricate or ornamental details. This could include patterns, textures, or decorative elements that add complexity and visual interest.

2. Embellishments: Consider adding embellishments such as borders, flourishes, or intricate linework to enrich your design and make it more visually captivating.

3. Layering: Utilize layering techniques to add depth and complexity to your design. This can involve overlapping elements, using transparency or gradients, or incorporating different levels of shading or texture.

4. Gradation: Incorporate gradation to create a sense of progression or gradual change in your design. This can involve the use of varying sizes, intensities, or densities of elements to add depth and dimension.

Remember, while elaboration can significantly enhance a design, it's essential to find a balance that ensures the overall composition remains cohesive and visually pleasing. Experiment with different techniques and elements while considering the principles of variety and contrast to achieve a harmonious design.