What design of elements did Vincent van Gogh use in his paintings?

Harmony

The style of painting same throughout and the control of the cool colors, especially around the perimeter of the painting, helps to unify the composition. The repetition of lines also helps to create a sense of harmony

Variety

the different colors and direction of the lines create variety in this painting. Contrast of temperature also helps.

Balance

This painting is asymmetrical since all the sides are unequal. There is a balance between positive and negative space, however.

Attention

the attention is on van Gogh's face. The shape of the eye created by the lines of the background focus in on the head, and its warm colors contrast with the rest of the composition, drawing the eye to itself. The lack of detail in the rest of the painting also serves to emphasize the head.

Emphasis

There are no objects in the background, and the clothing and palette lack detail, making the face the most detailed part of the composition. It is not a sophiscated component; rather it places emphasis on the emotional aspect of the painting.