Dynamic Harmonies

Artist and educator Ken Goshen explores the concept of balancing oppositional qualities in composition

Investigating the impact and mechanics of composition has been a major focus of my recent work. In this article, I aim to share insights and tools that might prove beneficial in the practice of any new, or even experienced, painter interested in improving their composition design. Let us start with a suggested definition: a composition is an arrangement of marks (shapes, colors, edges, textures, etc.) on a surface that achieves a harmonious balance of individual elements within a cohesive whole and evokes a desired emotional or aesthetic response. This definition applies to both figurative and abstract painting. It also applies to music if you switch out "marks" and "surface" for "notes" and "sequence." Thus, the conclusions drawn from this article can serve you in creating and analyzing any style of art that appeals to you.