Beginning Composition (Portfolio)

Learn to create engaging works of art with Beginning Composition (Portfolio).

Learn to create eye-catching, well-composed works of art using acrylic, oil, and watercolor paints. Beginning Composition features quick exercises for getting started in art, primers on the principles of composition and the Rule of Thirds, what to look for when composing artwork, examples of successful (and unsuccessful) compositions from a selection of artists, and customizable painting projects.

The Portfolio series covers essential art techniques, core concepts, and media with an approach and format that's perfect for aspiring, beginning, and intermediate artists. From this concept- and technique-driven series comes Beginning Composition (Portfolio), which details how to compose a work of art so that it draws in-and then holds-the viewer's attention. Written and illustrated by a professional artist with years of experience in creating versatile, stunning works of art, Beginning Composition (Portfolio) teaches you how to create successful compositions in acrylic, oil, and watercolor paints.

After an introduction to the essentials of composition and some examples of composition in action, you are then invited to create your own artwork on a range of subjects, including landscapes, florals, animals, and more. The painting projects encourage personalization and creativity. Other topics covered include conveying mood and emotion through composition, the Golden Ratio, focal points, and more. With Beginning Composition (Portfolio), artists of all skill levels can learn to create engaging compositions in a range of art media.

About the Author

Washington-based artist Kimberly Adams creates vibrant landscapes using her fingertips. Kimberly studied art while growing up in New Mexico and says her paintings represent her love for nature as well as her adventurous heart. She serves on the board of directors for Parklane Fine Art Gallery in Kirkland, Washington, and teaches finger-painting workshops at Cole Gallery in Edmonds, Washington. Kimberly co-authored Oil & Acrylic Workshop and is the author of Portfolio: Beginning Color Mixing and Portfolio: Beginning Composition, all from Walter Foster Publishing.