Composition - chess figures



While preparing for entering an Architecture University, there are various themes you have to prepare and practice on. From the earliest times, people expressed themselves by combining different signs, images or objects with symbolic meanings, using that mix as premature form of writing or even only for decorating.  Today, I suggest you an insight into what is called 'composition'.

The term 'composition' refers to mixing up elements and it can apply to any form of art, from music to photography, writing or theater. As far as visual arts are concerned, a composition involves placing visual elements according to the rules of art in order to obtain a harmonious work of art. Nowadays, 'design' is often used instead of 'composition'. Architecturally speaking, a composition is a type of drawing usually containing small objects, which focuses on details and materials, perspective view and shading.

"Elements of design" are:

• Line - the visual path that enables the eye to move within the piece
• Shape - areas defined by edges within the piece, whether geometric or organic
• Color - hues with their various values and intensities
• Texture - surface qualities which translate into tactile illusions
• Tone - Shading used to emphasize form
• Form - 3-D length, width, or depth
• Space - the space taken up by (positive) or in between (negative) objects
• Depth - perceived distance from the observer, separated in foreground, background, and optionally middle ground

For making a good composition, the following principles of organisation should act together:

- balance & harmony among the elements;

- choice of a significant centre of interest;

- the horizont line should not divide the art work in two equal parts;

- shape and proportions ( influenced by the chosen perspective);

- colour & contrast;

- rhythm;

- illumination.

You could find further information about composition rules on http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Composition_(visual_arts)

The following images depict some stages in my composition which is entitled 'Chess and Backgammon' ("Sah si table", as seen in the pictures, in Romanian).

When starting drawing such a composition, just leave your imagination and sense of balance work for you. And never forget: every single art work made by yourself is a part of your inner feelings, the expression of your own personality, the 'true you' onto a sheet of paper.