Having an area of interest is essential~Lynn Burton
The area that attracts the viewers eye to a work of art, is something called the “focal point” or center of interest. Having an area that an artist places emphasis in their work is most important to create a work of art, rather than a picture. A picture usually has areas of details throughout, but a painting should have areas that are more important that will capture the viewers first gaze.
Important tips:
- Don’t place area of emphasis too close to the edge. It is more safe for the composition to be off to one of the sides of center – up or down. If you place the impact area in the center, it may make the painting look symmetrical or static; although, it sometimes works.
- Color and placement create the path the viewers eyes will follow. Be bold when painting the impact area.
- The use of bright color, color change, and value contrast are important for an artist to capture.
- Check for proper use of edges, detail, and directional shapes.
