Composition (visual arts)
In the fine arts , composition is a term for the formal structure of works of art , which affects the relationships between the design elements. The term is not only used for two-dimensional techniques ( painting , drawing , graphics , relief , photography ). Also in the plastic , sculpture , especially with groups of sculptures and the architecture one speaks of compositions that can be understood and space.
Elements of the composition
The elements of the composition include:
- Arrangement of the figures / objects
- Composition scheme, spherical or geometric relationships such as the triangular composition and the diagonal method
- perspective
- Proportion theory
- Lines (real as well as imaginary)
- Golden cut
- Flatness
- symmetry
- light
- Principles of order: sequence, rhythm , concentration, grouping, dispersion, symmetry, asymmetry, structure, grid, focus, contrasts, dynamics, statics
- colour
Chiaroscuro composition
A large part of the composition has already been clarified with a tonal sketch. An expressive visual effect is achieved through a strong contrast between light and dark. In the drawing, the stroke already causes composition lines in the picture through gentle and strong pressure. In addition, areas of light and shadow are an elementary compositional element with a perspective effect.
Color composition
Like shape, color as a compositional element is an essential means of expression in art. Relationships of colors in an image can be opposing or harmonious . Colors with different vividness (e.g. red and blue), complementary colors ( red ↔ cyan , blue ↔ yellow , green ↔ magenta ) as well as colors with light-dark and warm-cold contrast are contrasting. Color combinations are considered to be harmonious, in the color circle are close together and are similar in color brightness and color intensity.
See also
literature
- Composition. In: Lexikon der Kunst, Vol. 2, Berlin 1981, ISBN 3-88436-112-0 .
- Gerlinde Gschwendtner: Composition theory forms. English publisher . Wiesbaden 2002 ISBN 978-3-8241-1174-9
- Gerlinde Gschwendtner: Composition theory colors. English publisher . Wiesbaden 2002 ISBN 978-3-8241-1175-6
- Friedrich Matz : Comments on the Roman composite (= treatises of the Academy of Science and Literature Mainz. Humanities and social science class. Born 1952, number 8). Verlag der Akademie der Wissenschaften und der Literatur, Mainz (commissioned by Franz Steiner, Wiesbaden).