Composition

Composition is the specific arrangement of components or shapes in the picture, considering their interrelationship. One would do well to remember that in painting we are not to exactly copy on paper all details that we see. Such a job could easily be done by a camera as well. A painting on the other hand should aim at being an independent work of art as a whole, with a beauty of its own that is more than the sum of its parts. Every photograph does not become a work of art by mere faithfulness to details. It is finally arranging the elements in a particular way, that adds a touch of beauty to a picture.

Paintings are our medium to achieve a dialogue with the viewer. Therefore, the composition should be in tune with our feelings and emotions. It reflects our experience on viewing a scene. This, along with our mental frame as an artist, goes together towards making our picture 'speak'.

Even if each composition is totally subjective, that is, varying from person to person, there are some basic rules which should be followed to make the picture more attractive. The rules need not tie us down for there is no rule which cannot be broken successfully. Often, depending upon the subject, a composition overriding all rules can be more expressive. However, it would be worthwhile to be thoroughly familiar with the basics, before experimenting.