The #1 Mistake Beginner Artists Make (and how to fix it!)
Hey there, fellow artist! 👋
Are you constantly frustrated when your painting doesn’t turn out the way you envisioned? You're not alone! Many beginner painters face the same frustrating cycle—diving into details without nailing the composition first.
I get it. It’s tempting to focus on those beautiful flowers or that dreamy landscape, but here’s the truth: if the underlying composition isn’t solid, even the most stunning details can’t save the painting. Think of it like building a house—without a strong foundation, it doesn’t matter how pretty the wallpaper is!
When I first started painting, I made this mistake all the time. I’d try to ‘fix’ things by adding more details, but it only led to more frustration. My confidence took a hit, and it felt like I wasn’t progressing.
But here's the good news: once you master composition, everything else falls into place! You can get away with imperfections because the structure of your painting holds it together.
What Is Composition, and Why Is It So Important?
Composition is the backbone of your artwork. It’s how you organize elements on the canvas—guiding the viewer’s eye and creating balance. A strong composition sets the stage for a more harmonious, visually appealing painting. Without it, your painting might feel... off, no matter how much effort you put into the details.
Avoid This Common Beginner Mistake
Many new artists jump straight into painting without considering the placement of their elements. They focus on color and details but forget about composition. This leads to paintings that feel unbalanced or cluttered.
By taking a step back and planning your composition before you begin, you’ll not only avoid frustration but also build confidence in your process.
How to Improve Your Painting Composition
Here’s a simple way to get started:
1) Sketch First
Spend time planning out the big shapes and areas of contrast. Use thumbnails if you need to experiment with different layouts.
2) Think About Focal Points
Where do you want your viewer's eyes to go? Use colour, light, and line to draw attention to those areas.
3) Balance is Everything
Make sure there’s harmony in how elements are distributed across your canvas. Too much on one side can feel heavy and disjointed.
BONUS: Watch this video to discover the BEST HACK for a great composition.
The Painter's Guide 🎨
If you’re serious about improving your painting, I’ve got just the thing for you! Download The Painter’s Guide, along with a free worksheet, to help you create stronger compositions in every piece you create.
Click here to get the free guide now!
Stop feeling stuck and start painting with more confidence by mastering the foundation—composition!
And don't forget to grab The Painter’s Guide and join me in my upcoming free workshop to learn even more. You've got this! 🎨