• Composition is the relation between elements of a picture.

Elements

  • Framing - the region that demarcates what is part of the art work. The eyes look at the frame as a whole
    • Consider how objects are proportioned in relation to each other or to empty space.
  • Space - divided into two. The positive space is what is drawn. The negative space is what isn’t.
    • If negative space dominates the art work, the insignificance of the subject becomes the focus.
    • If positive space dominates, then thee details of the subject are what’s important.
  • Contrast - the difference between elements. It distinguishes elements from each other. This distinction makes certain elements pop.
    • The more contrast, the more chaotic and cluttered the piece.
    • The less contrast, the more ordered the piece looks.
  • Rhythm - the degree of repetition between visual elements.
    • Rhythms can create patterns which appear pleasing to the eye.
    • Breaking the rhythm tends to cause elements to stand out.
    • Rhythm gives an additional structure to the piece.
  • Focal Point - where we want the viewer too look. With compositional techniques, we are able to control where the viewer looks.
    • The eyes naturally focus on the center of the image, as defined by the rule of thirds.

Techniques

  • Use thumbnails to prototype the general composition of the image.
  • Draw only the basic image, using basic shapes and little to no detail. Construction Drawing the image own into basic shapes
  • Composition is the balance between positive space, negative space, and focal points.
    • Balance is about achieving the appropriate amount of contrast.
  • Perspective Drawing
  • Flip the image horizontally or vertically to get a fresh perspective.

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