Movement in composition

Landscape composition is a subject with many moving parts. For example, we have to consider several forms of variation, such as intervals (the “pacing and spacing” between elements), and differences of size and visual weight – all of which add interest to the visual tapestry. We also have to consider the “picture window” – the rectangular paper or canvas that determines what will be included in our composition and what will be left out. Of the many aspects of composition, however, the one that brings the most dynamic quality to a painting is movement.

Movement is what animates a composition and brings it to life. Our eye remains active and engaged as it moves around and through the picture. Only a blank surface, absent of any mark or shape, would have no movement