A few years ago, my paintings sucked. They were wonky and amateur.
Today, my paintings sell in a gallery. I have confidence and recognition.
How?
I ruthlessly studied composition. I filtered out everything else.
Here are some composition resources to focus your growth
Course: Tim Packer Composition
This course is approachable and understandable. It’s not technical or boring, like so many art books. It made me realize how much I had to learn, where I was failing before, and how to keep going. It helped me filter out color, brushwork, size, subject, medium, etc. And just nail composition.
Book: Edgar Paynes Composition of Outdoor Painting
A boring technical book. But Chapter 3 is gold. It shows the basic composition types: steelyard, circle, s-curve, cross, radiating, etc. I sketched the examples for practice. I learned how to see these in nature. I would go outside and sketch my own scenes in pen only. This book was a big breakthrough. It kept me focused on proper composition.
Tools” Viewfinder and Sketchbook
I mostly paint outside en plein air. A viewfinder helps frame a scene. I always sketch a couple composition variations. Many painters rush straight into painting. I see this all the time at workshops, with new and experienced painters. Then I see a lot of frustration. So take a few moments to compose your scene. It will greatly increase the chances of a successful painting. Use a viewfinder and sketchbook.
This course, book, and tools were intentional composition practice. My paintings improved, according to my art friends. A gallery owner took notice. I sold many more paintings. Proper composition took my paintings to the next level. And it was ruthless focus, that helped me get there. And it could help you level up too.