Patterns and Textures In Composition

Patterns and texture used in isolation to create a composition can give rise to an almost abstract image. It can even be difficult for the viewer to decipher what the subject is. This can lead to an atmospheric piece in which many ideas come to mind, producing for the person more of a superposition of feelings when looking at the image.

For example, the photograph here might be a number of things. The mind can search for what seems most likely, and in doing so, it's almost as if the image becomes all of them at the same time. This might fascinate the observer and render the composition more interesting.

Another effect is that the variation in color throughout the composition has increased importance. It can become almost like observing a fire in which the variations in flame color can intrigue an observer for long periods of time.





The selection and focus on texture to enhance the appeal of a subject is also very effective.










Focusing on patterns in nature can draw greater awareness and appreciation for the intricacies that we may not have time to stop outdoors for long enough to study closely.



Trees and their bark can be fascinating subjects.








This tree trunk seems to have a character of its own. Letting the imagination run, it can almost seem that there's a horse and a person hidden in its folds.







The soft, slightly varied repetition of the pattern of flower bunches in this image give it a gentle, soothing radiance. The cascade in the tree branch is fun to follow.

The pattern generates a direction of movement from the upper left to lower right of the image.



The movement generated by patterns can be consciously used in a composition to attract and guide an observer's eye.

Shapes that don't follow an exact, repetitive geometrical rule can create a scene that's relaxing to look at.The next image is somehow haunting, and what might seem at first to be a dull rendition, keeps pulling the eyes back to it to look some more.


Even though the background is a similar color to the flower, the texture of the background throws the flower into unexpected relief, where every detail on the flower is important.











The window light falling on the floor stones creates a very mellow, earthy feeling.




The sky is a source of an infinite variety of changing patterns and textures.
Whether your art is photography, painting, or even graphic design, the directed use of patterns and textures in a composition is extremely important for creating a desired impact.