Composition
The art of composition
Questions of Composition
Before painting, the artist needs an idea. They must determine subject matter, and compose the subject manner in a way that is going to be the most effective. Asking yourself questions may help you in this task.
Once the artist has thought through various questions such as these, it is time to put the ideas to paper. Rough sketches are used to ensure composition is correct, and that the picture captures the feeling the artist is trying to convey. Sketches should be kept simple, broad, and not contain a lot of detail. Once the artist feels they have captured the effect, focal point, rhythm and design and feeling they want to create for the viewer, the sketches can then be transferred to the final work of art.
- What kind of mood is going to be created?
- What emotions are going to be evoked?
- What content should be in the picture to capture the viewer, allowing them to grasp what the artist has envisioned?
- Will anything in the picture distract the viewer, and should it be moved, or removed?
- Is this the very best composition for this subject?
- Is the proportion correct?
Once the artist has thought through various questions such as these, it is time to put the ideas to paper. Rough sketches are used to ensure composition is correct, and that the picture captures the feeling the artist is trying to convey. Sketches should be kept simple, broad, and not contain a lot of detail. Once the artist feels they have captured the effect, focal point, rhythm and design and feeling they want to create for the viewer, the sketches can then be transferred to the final work of art.