What Are the Types of Compositions for Painting Art?

Symmetrical composition

Repeating similar shapes and forms on each side of the painting creates a symmetrical composition.

The elements on one side of the painting are very similar to the ones on the other side.

The composition is evenly balanced and has a feeling of stability and calm. 

Symmetrical compositions are very good for painting a formal building where the left and right side look quite similar. 

Asymmetrical painting

Even though each side has different elements, they visually feel the same weight. 

For example: A single large object can be balanced by several small objects on the other side.

This type of composition creates interest and encourages the viewer's eye to move around the entire painting.

Asymmetrical paintings feel more dynamic and interesting, even though they remain in balance.

Balance is an important principle of art.

Reversed L-shaped composition

This composition has a backwards "L" for a good reason.

In our western culture people read from the left to the right.

So that means they also look at paintings from the left to the right.

A couple of tall palm trees on the left edge of the painting would keep the viewers eyes from comfortably entering the painting.

The ocean waves on the bottom part of the L-shape are the leading line into the painting. They guide our eyes over to the palm trees.

The trees are rising out of an angled spot of earth. The angle makes a smooth transition from the horizontal water to the vertical trees.

A few birds in the distance entertain the viewer when they enter the painting from higher up.

Painting in a diagonal composition.

Diagonal lines denote action and movement.

In contrast, horizontal lines are peaceful and restful. (There are no horizontal lines in this painting)

The diagonal line of the Sea Dragon tells us he is swimming forward.

The front of his head is far enough away from the side of the painting to keep our view inside the artwork.

The diagonal line of the coral in the lower left repeats the action line and also anchors the bottom of the painting.

The fish between the two diagonal lines also show movement and tie the diagonal lines together.