1. Look at the picture above. A Landscape painting should contain a center of interest, which is the most predominant and beautiful area in a painting. The center of interest can be further enhanced when it contains a focal point creating a "bulls-eye" effect by adding a touch of purer color, and/or value contrast. This area will become the star in your play. The surrounding area should be subordinate. A well developed center of interest contains:
- The strongest color and if possible complementary colors.
- A strong shift in value contrast (Light-dark or vice versa)
- Preferably, not essentially, it should take up a good portion of the picture plane and gradually become subdued while withdrawing.
- Man made structures, animals or human figures will further enhance the center of interest. They take the role of main actors.
- The subordinate and surrounding elements should direct or lead the viewer to that center of interest by means of pointers and visual paths. See fig 1 &2.
- It should not be placed in the center nor halfway in the picture, preferably in any of the 1/3 portions.
- This area should not be blocked, not even partially. This will diminish its importance.
- An effectively designed center of interest will grasp and hold the viewer's attention.
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