by Trend MediaPrinciples of Composition in Art – Definition and Types
Throughout our lives, we have seen countless images, from paintings hanging in museums to advertisements flashing on billboards in the streets on our way to work. But have you ever asked yourself if art has rules that the artists follow? The short answer is yes, where each image is a carefully constructed composition, an arrangement of elements that guides the viewer’s eye and conveys a message.
But how do artists and designers organize the building blocks of their work to create visually compelling and meaningful pieces?
The answer to this question lies in the principles of composition. These principles serve as a toolbox, equipping artists with the tools they need to arrange the elements of art to achieve the desired effect. By understanding and applying these principles, artists can create balanced, harmonious, and impactful compositions.
In this article, we will take you on a tour to learn about the composition in Art, why it matters, and what are its types. Ready to start the journey? Buckle up!
What Is The Composition In Art?
First of all, before getting into any details about the types of composition in Art, we have to know what is the composition.
The term “Art Composition” refers to how an artwork’s elements are organized to effectively express the artist’s idea about a subject or provide the work of art with a sense of general harmony.
But how to start creating the correct composition? Well, there is something that the designers must do before starting any step, which is Planning.
Planning gives the designers the chance to identify the correct message behind the piece of art they are willing to create, and the elements they will use to let the idea shine.
The first thing they do before starting the design is to put the main subject of the design at the focal point of the painting. But what if they have more than one subject, in this case, they need to make sure that one of them is the focal point and the others are supporting focal points.
It’s worth noting that the fewer the focal points in the design, the more successful the composition will be.
But where should the focal point be placed? Let’s move to the next section to find out!
Where To Place The Focal Point?
As mentioned before, each design has a main focal point and secondary ones supporting it, now we will list the famous techniques of placing the focal point as it’s an important part of the composition in Art.
- The Center
Placing the focal point or the main message in the center of the design is a famous technique but is it the best option? It might be good but it’s not the best as placing the main subject in the center of the piece of art might not give them the chance to add other elements as it will catch the eyes of the viewer directly, while placing the subject off-center can create a more dynamic composition, leading the viewer’s eye to explore the entire piece. This can add movement and interest to the artwork, allowing for a more engaging experience for the viewer.
- Rule of thirds
The rule of thirds also known as the golden ratio lets the designer place the primary subject of the design in the middle of the design or in one of its thirds which is a helpful guideline for creating a balanced composition while still allowing for creativity and expression. This technique can enhance the overall impact of the artwork and make it more memorable as it lets the viewers’ eyes explore each part of the design.
The Focal Point Placement
After knowing two of the famous techniques to place the focal point, let’s explore more techniques that will amaze you.
- Isolation
Isolation is another technique to make the subject of the design the main attraction as the technique focuses on removing any competing elements and highlighting the subject’s importance within the frame. This allows for a clear and impactful presentation of the subject, making it catchy to viewers immediately.
- Contrast
In this technique, the designers can easily grab the attention of the viewer by playing with contrast which can be achieved by color as an option, like coloring the main subject with red while coloring the secondary subjects with dark colors.
- Leading lines composition
Leading Lines composition can also help guide the viewer’s eye towards the main subject, creating a sense of movement and flow within the image. This happens by strategically placing lines or shapes that direct attention towards the subject the designer wants to highlight.
This technique adds depth and visual interest to the design, making it more engaging for viewers to explore.
Now the time has come to explore the types of composition which are 15.
What Are the Types of The Composition?
There are many types of composition but here are the famous 15 types:
- Balanced
- Un balanced
- S Curve
- Pyramid
- C Circle
- Rule of thirds
- Golden Spiral
- Diagonal
- L-Shape
- Tunnel
- V-Shape
- Radiating
- Circular
- Golden Section
- Cross
Now let’s list some information about some of these types.
- Balanced
The balanced technique is used when highlighting two important subjects that the designer needs to highlight in the piece of art.
- Unbalanced
It’s where the primary and secondary subjects in the design are placed in different sizes to make a difference between them.
- S Curve
S Curve composition is another effective way to guide the viewer’s eye through the image, leading them on a visual journey that adds curiosity. By using curved lines that take the shape of an “S” which creates a sense of movement that keeps the viewer engaged with the design.
- Pyramid
The Pyramid structure helps in creating a sense of balance and stability in the composition, drawing the viewer’s eye towards the subject at the top. This technique also gives a sense of hierarchy, emphasizing the subject’s significance within the overall design.
Overall
Our graphic designers at Trend Media well know all of these techniques used in the composition in art and are constantly staying up to date with the latest trends in design to ensure you receive the most innovative and visually appealing work that effectively communicates the business message you want to highlight.
All you need to do is contact us and let our designers guide you in the right direction.
