In these studies, I wanted to spend some time trying to train my eye in composition. Usually, in my work I begin with lots of elements, often unrelated. It’s the most enjoyable part of my process. Eventually, I have to set a hierarchy of importance for the work to hold together.
By doing these exercises, I wanted to train my eye to find the most interesting and relevant parts of a painting and highlight them in the composition. The goal was to fill 25 – 30% of the painting with “busy” areas and present the other 75-75% of the piece as a quiet area. At the same time, I also wanted to retain an interest in the quiet areas.
These pieces were created with acrylic paint, collage, acrylic marker and graphite.
- Layering is critical to this technique
- Different proportions of quiet and busy areas can lead to pleasant composition and leave a place for the eye to rest
- There are subtle ways to create interest in quiet areas
- This approach can lead to an exploration of overlooked sections of the canvas as a focal point
- A variety of unrelated elements can be harmonious with this formula
