Composition Tips: Successful Visual Communication in Art

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 11 July 2023 11 min read

10.

Keep Practicing and Evolving

Seeking Feedback
Analyzing Other Artworks
Continuing to Learn

Visual communication in art is a powerful tool, and composition is its backbone. But what is the most common purpose for composition in art? It's simple: to guide the viewer's eye through elements in the piece of art. When done well, composition creates a connection between the artist and the viewer, and encourages a deeper understanding of the artwork. In this blog, we will explore practical tips and techniques to enhance your compositions, and consequently, your artwork's visual communication.

Identify your Focus

Every successful piece of art begins with a clear focus. This is the first step in your composition journey. Let's break it down into three main parts: understanding composition, choosing your subject, and setting the scene.

Understanding Composition

Composition refers to how you arrange elements within your artwork to achieve a harmonious and visually pleasing result. It's about leading the viewer through your piece, creating balance, and emphasizing key points. Keep in mind:

Balance: The placement of elements should not make the artwork feel too heavy on one side.
Emphasis: Use techniques such as contrast or isolation to draw attention to your focal points.
Flow: Guide the viewer's eye through the artwork, usually from the focal point outwards.

Choosing Your Subject

Your subject is what you choose to represent in your artwork. It could be a person, an object, or even an abstract concept. The subject is often the focal point in your composition. When choosing a subject, consider:

Interest: Choose a subject that genuinely interests you. Your passion will shine through in your artwork.
Relevance: Does your subject align with the message you want to communicate?
Representation: How can you represent your subject in a unique and engaging way?

Setting the Scene

Setting the scene involves deciding where and how your subject is placed within the artwork. This can greatly influence how the viewer interprets your piece. Keep these tips in mind:

Background: What surrounds your subject? The background can support or distract from your subject.
Placement: Where you place your subject in the frame can impact the balance and flow of your artwork.
Context: How does the scene contribute to the story or mood of your artwork?

Mastering the art of focus in your compositions may take time, but remember, practice makes perfect! Let's move on to another essential composition tool: the rule of thirds.

Master the Rule of Thirds

Often considered the golden rule in art and photography, the rule of thirds is a tried-and-true method that improves the balance and visual interest in your composition. But what does it entail, and when can you break it? Let's dig into this.

Applying the Rule

The rule of thirds involves dividing your artwork into nine equal rectangles—three across and three down—like a tic-tac-toe board. The idea is to place your subject or key elements along these lines or at their intersections. Why? Because studies show that people's eyes naturally go to these areas rather than the center of the frame. Here are a few pointers:

Align: Align your subject with the vertical or horizontal lines.
Intersect: Place points of interest at the intersections of the lines.
Balance: Use the thirds to balance other elements in the scene.

Breaking the Rule

While the rule of thirds is a fantastic guideline, it's not set in stone. There are times when breaking it can result in even more compelling compositions. This usually happens when you want to create a different effect or mood, or when your subject fills the frame. Here's when you might consider bending the rule:

Centering: A symmetrical scene or a single, powerful subject can benefit from being centered.
Filling the frame: When your subject fills the frame, it can create a sense of immediacy and connection.
Creating tension: Off-kilter compositions can generate a feeling of unease or tension.

Remember, rules are there to guide you, but don't feel bound by them. Art is often about breaking rules and experimenting, so feel free to step outside the lines—pun intended—and see what works best for your artwork.

Utilize Lines to Direct the Viewer

Lines are a powerful tool in your composition toolbox—they can guide the viewer's eye, create movement, and add structure to your artwork. But how should you use them? Let's explore a few strategies.

Using Leading Lines

Leading lines are an effective way to direct the viewer's gaze to your focal point. They can be anything from a road, a river, a fence, or even a gaze or pointing finger in a portrait. Here's how you can use them:

Direct: Use leading lines to direct the viewer's eye to your main subject.
Create depth: Leading lines can create a sense of depth and three-dimensionality in your artwork.
Generate movement: Lines can also imply movement, making your composition dynamic and engaging.

Using Diagonal Lines

Diagonal lines add dynamism and a sense of action to your artwork. Unlike horizontal or vertical lines, they suggest movement and change and can create a sense of depth or perspective. Here's how you can make them work:

Create tension: Diagonal lines can create a sense of instability or tension in your composition.
Guide the eye: Diagonal lines can lead the viewer's eye across the artwork, from one element to another.
Add depth: Use diagonal lines to convey a sense of depth or three-dimensionality.

Using Curves

Curved lines or shapes can add an organic, soft, and flowing feel to your composition. They can guide the viewer's eye in a smooth, relaxed way. Here's how you can incorporate them:

Soothe the eye: Curves provide a soft, soothing contrast to the harshness of straight lines.
Lead gently: Use curved lines to gently guide the viewer's eye through your artwork.
Symbolize: Curves are often associated with softness, femininity, and nature, which you can use to add symbolic meaning to your work.

Remember, lines are not just physical—they can also be implied, like the direction of a gaze, or the arrangement of elements in your composition. Use them wisely to guide your viewer, create movement, and add structure to your artwork.

Play with Perspectives

When it comes to creating compelling artwork, perspective is your best friend. It enables you to turn flat, two-dimensional surfaces into realistic three-dimensional spaces. Let's look at how you can incorporate different perspectives in your art to create a more engaging visual narrative.

Trying Different Angles

Change can be a good thing, especially when it comes to angles. Shifting your viewpoint can drastically change the mood and impression of your artwork. Here's how to do it:

High angle: A high angle view can make your subject appear smaller or more vulnerable. It's a great way to add a sense of drama or tension to your composition.
Low angle: Conversely, a low angle view can make your subject seem taller, more powerful, or more imposing.
Eye level: An eye-level view creates a sense of equality and neutrality. It's a good choice when you want the viewer to feel a personal connection with the subject.

Experimenting with Viewpoints

Don't be afraid to mix things up a bit! Experimenting with different viewpoints can give your artwork a fresh, unique feel. Here's how:

Bird's eye view: This viewpoint allows you to see the subject from above, offering a comprehensive view of the scene and a unique perspective.
Worm's eye view: Conversely, a worm's eye view presents the world from a low viewpoint, often creating a dramatic and unusual perspective.
Oblique view: An oblique view allows you to show your subject from a side angle, which can add depth and dimensionality to your composition.

Remember, the key to creating interesting and engaging artwork often lies in breaking away from the norm and trying out new perspectives. So, grab your brush, pencil, or camera, and start experimenting!

Balance Your Elements

The way visual elements are arranged can make or break your artwork. Finding the right balance is like cooking a perfect meal — too much or too little of one ingredient can spoil the whole dish. Let's dive into how you can balance different elements to create a harmonious composition.

Balancing Colors

Colors can evoke emotions, set the mood, and even guide the viewer's eye. Here's how you can strike the right color balance:

Complementary colors: These are colors that are opposite each other on the color wheel. They create high contrast and can make your artwork pop.
Analogous colors: These are colors that are next to each other on the color wheel. They create a sense of harmony and unity.
Monochromatic colors: This is a color scheme based on only one color, but uses different shades, tones, and tints of that color. It can create a soothing and balanced composition.

Balancing Shapes

Shapes can add structure and interest to your artwork. Here's how to balance them effectively:

Geometric shapes: These are regular shapes like circles, squares, and triangles. They can bring a sense of order and stability to your composition.
Organic shapes: These are irregular, freeform shapes often found in nature. They can add a sense of spontaneity and natural flow to your artwork.

Balancing Textures

Texture can add depth and tactile quality to your artwork. It can be achieved through various techniques and materials. Here's how to balance them:

Rough textures: These can draw attention and make an object or area stand out.
Smooth textures: These can help an object or area to blend in with its surroundings.

So, what is the most common purpose for composition in art? It's about creating a balanced, harmonious whole that engages the viewer. Whether you're balancing colors, shapes, or textures, remember that each element plays a vital role in your overall composition.

Create Depth

Ever wondered how a two-dimensional artwork can give the illusion of three dimensions? The magic lies in creating depth. It's like inviting your viewers on a journey, leading them from the foreground to the background of your artwork. Let's explore how you can add that depth and make your art more immersive.

Using Foreground and Background

The simplest way to create depth is by having a foreground, middle ground, and background in your artwork:

Foreground: This is the area closest to the viewer. Objects here are typically larger and more detailed.
Middle ground: This is the area in between the foreground and background. Objects here are of medium size and detail.
Background: This is the area farthest from the viewer. Objects here are usually smaller and less detailed.

Using Shadow and Light

Another effective way to add depth is through the use of light and shadow — it's like turning on a spotlight on a dark stage:

Light areas: These can appear to come forward in the composition, attracting the viewer's attention.
Dark areas: These can appear to recede in the composition, providing a backdrop for the light areas.

Creating depth is a key aspect of composition in art. It can make your artwork more dynamic and engaging, giving it a sense of realism. After all, isn't it amazing how a flat canvas can transport you to a whole new world?

Frame Within a Frame

Ever noticed how a window can beautifully frame the view outside, almost like a natural painting? That's the concept of a frame within a frame. It can add depth to your artwork and guide the viewer's eye to the focal point.

Using Natural Frames

Nature provides countless opportunities for framing your subject. Here are a few examples:

Overhanging branches: They can form a natural arch over your subject.
Reflections in water: They can create a mirror-like frame around your subject.
Openings in rocks or trees: They can provide a unique window to your subject.

Using Architectural Elements

Architecture, too, offers numerous ways to frame your subject. Here are some ideas:

Doorways and windows: They can serve as a perfect rectangular frame.
Arches and bridges: They can create a curved frame for your subject.
Staircases and hallways: They can lead the viewer's eye towards your subject.

A frame within a frame is a powerful composition technique. It can add a layer of complexity to your artwork, making it more interesting. So, why not give it a try and see what frames you can find around you?

Simplify Your Compositions

What is the most common purpose for composition in art? To communicate an idea, emotion, or story. But sometimes, less is more. Simplifying your compositions can make your message clearer and more impactful.

Eliminating Distractions

Anything in your artwork that doesn’t contribute to your message can be a distraction. Here are a few tips to eliminate them:

Choose a simple background: It can prevent your subject from getting lost in a busy scene.
Remove unnecessary elements: Every object, color, or line should play a role in your composition.
Use negative space: It can highlight your subject and create a sense of balance.

Focusing on the Essentials

To simplify your compositions, focus on what’s essential. Here’s how:

Identify your main subject: It’s what you want your viewers to focus on.
Limit your color palette: Too many colors can be overwhelming. Stick to a few that work well together.
Keep your lines clean: They should lead the viewer’s eye towards your subject, not away from it.

Remember, simplicity is not about making your artwork plain or boring. It’s about removing the noise so that your message comes through loud and clear.

Experiment with Symmetry and Asymmetry

One aspect of composition that can greatly influence the visual impact of your art is balance. And there are two main ways to achieve it: symmetry and asymmetry. Both can serve a purpose and both can be powerful tools in your art-making arsenal.

Playing with Symmetrical Balance

Symmetrical balance is when elements are mirrored along a central axis. It can create a sense of harmony, stability, and formality. Think of the iconic "Mona Lisa" by Leonardo da Vinci—the way her face is perfectly balanced, creating a sense of calm and tranquility. To play with symmetrical balance, you might want to:

Try mirroring elements: This can be done vertically or horizontally.
Use even numbers: Pairs of elements can enhance the sense of symmetry.
Balance colors and textures: They can add depth and interest to your symmetrical compositions.

Exploring Asymmetrical Balance

Asymmetrical balance, on the other hand, involves different elements that have equal visual weight. It can create a sense of dynamism, interest, and casualness. Consider the painting "The Starry Night" by Vincent Van Gogh—the swirling patterns in the sky balance out the stillness of the village below. Here are ways you can explore asymmetrical balance:

Play with scale: Larger elements can balance out smaller ones.
Experiment with placement: Elements don't have to be centered to be balanced.
Vary shapes and colors: Different shapes and colors can balance each other out.

Whether you choose to use symmetry, asymmetry, or a combination of both, remember that balance in art can help guide the viewer’s eye and make your composition more engaging. So, what's your choice? Symmetry, asymmetry, or a little bit of both?

Keep Practicing and Evolving

The journey towards perfecting composition in art is a continuous one. It's a cycle of learning, practicing, and evolving. As the saying goes, "Rome wasn't built in a day", and neither will your skills in composition. It's essential to remember that making fantastic art isn't just about talent—it's about effort, patience, and persistence. So, let's dive into how you can keep improving your skills.

Seeking Feedback

One of the best ways to improve is by seeking feedback from others. Whether it's from a fellow artist, an art teacher, or even a family member, getting a fresh perspective can help you see things you might have missed. Here are some ways to get the most out of feedback:

Be open: Don't take criticism personally. Use it to grow.
Ask specific questions: Instead of "Do you like it?", try "Is the balance right?" or "What does this piece make you feel?".
Compare feedback: If multiple people point out the same thing, it's worth taking note.

Analyzing Other Artworks

Another great way to learn is by studying the work of others. This can help you understand different styles, techniques, and approaches to composition. When analyzing an artwork, consider:

The elements of design: How are lines, shapes, colors, and textures used?
The principles of design: Look for balance, contrast, emphasis, movement, and rhythm.
The mood or message: What is the artwork trying to communicate?

Continuing to Learn

Finally, never stop learning. Whether it's through art classes, books, or online resources, there's always something new to discover. Remember:

Stay curious: The more you learn, the better your art will be.
Practice makes perfect: The more you practice, the more natural composition will become.
Evolve: Don't be afraid to try new things and push your boundaries.

So, what's next on your journey to master composition in art? Whatever it is, embrace the process and enjoy the journey. You're not just creating art—you're evolving as an artist.

If you're eager to dive deeper into composition and visual communication in art, be sure to check out Austin James Jackson's workshop, 'Tips To Compose More Compelling Photos'. This workshop will provide you with valuable tips and techniques to help you create more captivating and visually appealing art through effective composition.