Optional Question: Focal Point

Understanding the Focal Point

The Focal Point is the area in a piece of artwork that inherently draws the viewer’s attention. It’s the main subject or theme.
It can be a single entity or a cluster of elements that the artist wants to emphasise.
The presence of a focal point can provide a sense of direction to the viewer and can help to tell the story of the artwork.

Contrast: A strong difference between your subject and the rest of the piece can guide the viewer’s eye towards the focal point. This can be achieved through colour, texture and form.
Size and Shape: Larger or uniquely-shaped elements within a piece can serve as a focal point.
Placement: The position of the focal point can affect the viewer’s interpretation. A traditionally placed focal point may sit at the ‘Golden Section’, which is approximately one third into the composition, either from the left or right.
Line and Shape: The eye naturally follows lines. Therefore, lines leading to your point of interest can guide the viewer’s eye towards it.
Colour and Light: Bright colours and light can attract attention, thus making those parts of your work stand out.

The focal point provides a place for the viewer’s eye to rest. It gives an entry point into the artwork and provides a place from which to explore the rest.
It adds depth to the artwork and can create emphasis on a particular idea or emotion.
It can also add to the visual balance and harmony of the composition.

In Portraiture, the focal point is often the subject’s eyes.
In Landscape Art, it could be a striking natural feature, a building or a group of animals.
In Abstract Art where a piece may not have a clear subject, the focal point could be a particular colour, a shape, or a pattern.
In any form of artwork, the choice of the focal point is often guided by the message the artist wishes to convey.

An effective focal point should draw attention but not overwhelm the rest of the piece. It should contribute to the overall unity and balance of the work.
The focal point should enhance the narrative or concept behind the artwork, rather than confusing or distorting it.
It should serve to engage the viewer and provoke an emotional or intellectual response.