Composition Part II

Welcome to the second part of our class on Composition.
Remember, we're not focusing on hyperrealistic paintings.
Our goal is to create good art using basically your natural talent, which, believe me, is greater than you realize.
The previous class on composition was a bit abstract.
It was designed for you to notice how you naturally organize things,
how your eyes see, and how your mind processes what you see.
Today, we will learn how to use shape some of those insights to create good art.
The main purpose of organizing your composition is to give your eyes a focal point, which is the heart of your composition.
Most people use the center of the given space to create art.
While there is nothing wrong with it, there are quite several arrangements and guidelines to creating a more visually appealing composition.
But, for the purpose of this series of classes, we are going to stick to only three of them:
Rule of Thirds
- Divide the space into a grid of nine equal parts with two horizontal and two vertical lines.
- We place the focal point on these intersections, not in the center.
- This creates tension, energy, and interest by encouraging asymmetry and balance.
- By following the rule of thirds, you can achieve a dynamic and engaging composition.
Golden Ratio also called Golden Spiral
- This mathematical proportion is aesthetically pleasing and harmonious. It may sound a bit complex, but It is actually pretty simple
- Found in nature, architecture, and classical art, it guides element placement for balance and visual appeal.
You can either use it as a grid to strategically position focal points and important features,
creating natural order and beauty.
Also, you can use it to better balance the size and shapes of elements on a given composition,
such as this, This and this one.
Pyramidal Composition
- Organize elements in a triangular shape for stability and harmony.
- Often used in Renaissance art, it directs the viewer's eye from the base to the peak, emphasizing the central subject.
- The broad base and narrowing apex guide attention and create a balanced composition.
For homework, I would like you to create some basic compositions using these three grids.
Use as many shapes as you like.
In our next class, we will cover color and contrast.
Keep practicing, and thank you for joining us!

[@TomTheBullTerrier]

It all sounds boring and confusing right now, but in a couple of weeks it will all make sense and we will keep on using these concepts but they will come up naturally. Bear with me, we’re going places