3.3 Emphasis Explained

Key Concepts Related to Emphasis

Emphasis in art refers to the technique of drawing attention to a specific element within a composition. This is achieved through various methods such as contrast, placement, and scale. Understanding emphasis is crucial for creating compositions that guide the viewer's eye and convey the artist's intent.

Contrast

Contrast involves using differences in color, value, texture, or shape to make an element stand out. By contrasting an element with its surroundings, the artist can create a focal point that draws the viewer's attention.

Example: In a landscape painting, a bright red flower among a field of green plants creates a strong contrast, making the flower the focal point of the composition.

Placement

Placement refers to the strategic positioning of elements within a composition to create emphasis. Elements placed at the center, near the edges, or in the foreground can all be used to guide the viewer's eye.

Example: In a portrait, placing the subject's eyes at the center of the composition creates a natural focal point, drawing the viewer's attention to the subject's gaze.

Scale

Scale involves using the size of elements to create emphasis. Larger elements tend to dominate the composition and draw more attention, while smaller elements can be used to create a sense of depth and balance.

Example: In a cityscape, a tall skyscraper among smaller buildings creates emphasis, highlighting the dominance and importance of the skyscraper within the urban environment.

Examples and Analogies

Consider the work of Vincent van Gogh, particularly his painting "The Starry Night." Van Gogh uses contrast to create emphasis by painting the swirling, dark blues of the sky against the bright yellows of the stars and moon. This contrast makes the stars and moon the focal points of the composition.

Another example is the use of placement in the art of Leonardo da Vinci. In his painting "The Last Supper," da Vinci places Jesus at the center of the composition, creating a natural focal point that draws the viewer's attention to the central figure.

Think of emphasis as a spotlight in a theater. Just as a spotlight draws attention to a specific actor on stage, emphasis in art draws the viewer's eye to a specific element within the composition.