Portfolio: Beginning Composition

SUBJECTSof a Design

Design Considerations

“GOOD COMPOSITION IS LIKE A SUSPENSION BRIDGE—EACH LINE ADDS STRENGTH AND TAKES NONE AWAY.”—ROBERT HENRI, AMERICAN PAINTER

The earlier chapters in this book discussed the principles of design and how to use them to plan a successful composition. Now let’s look closely at four common painting subjects—landscapes, portraits, still lifes, and florals—and how a properly executed plan works to create the feeling and idea that an artist wishes to portray.

When designing an artwork, consider the light source, entry point, and structure, and avoid tangents to ensure that there aren’t any unwanted distractions ...