Composition rules that make art work
Rule of thirds, leading lines, odd numbers and when to break them.
How to paint
Place the focal point near a line marking a third rather than dead centre.
Use leading lines — roads, rivers, arms — to pull the eye towards it, and group objects in odd numbers.
Rules are starting points. Break them on purpose, not by accident.
Related guides
- Acrylic painting for beginners
- Oil painting basics
- Watercolour techniques every artist should know
- Colour theory for painters