Sunday, March 7, 2010

Composition, Explained

I'm pretty sure you're all tired of hearing me tell you I trained as an artist. It makes a significant difference in how I arrange things and how I view things.I know how to move the eye across the page, or canvas, or quilt. It isn't an accident.

We all learn by trial and error, but sometimes we get so frustrated when "nothing" works, we give up. Knowledge saves time. I know how to achieve what I want, which is a direct result of my training.

So, short of going to Art School, how do you learn about "composition" and "making a picture?"

Buy this book, and read it.

Seriously.

It's a very simple, very effective, demonstration of WHY things work (visually) and it includes all the Principles. The book is no longer in print. You'll have to buy it used. It is available, much cheaper than Liberated Quiltmaking, and worth every cent.

Picture This, by Molly Bang

7 comments:

Sharon said...

Wow, that's a wonderful tip you're sharing. Your work is very good so I'll take your advice on this. The book's on my Wish List now. Thanks!

Quiltdivajulie said...

Thanks, Lynne. Learning a few news things is always good.

Jeanne said...

Hi, I would like to look at this book. Please bring it tonight. Love your mama Jeanne

Karmen said...

Well, I could learn a thing or two (hundred-thousand-million) about quilt making, so far seat-of-my-pants has been fun though. Thanks for telling us about the book. Karmen

Vicky F said...

Hi Lynne,
Well, if I had a blog I would probably mention more than once that I have NO art training. But that doesn't stop me from appreciating good art and enjoying learning about art from others (and you). Thanks for the tip on the book.
Vicky F

Tonya Ricucci said...

bought the remake of this book, Picture This: How Pictures Work. love it love it love it, thank you so much for the recommendation. Went to the author/artist's website and discovered it is being reprinted again and will be available in April. woohoo!

Tonya Ricucci said...

p.s. the author still has hardcover books available for $19.99. check out her website mollybang.com