Question

Where is the focal point in this work? Explain how the artist utilized the design principle of Emphasis in this painting to direct our attention to the focal area. In your explanation provide at least three examples of how this was done. Anna Vallayer-Coster, Still Life with Lobster, 1781 Oil on canvas, 27-3/4 x 35-1/4 in. Reprinted from your text According to the text, what is visual weight? Where is the fulcrum and what type of balance is used in this painting? Using at least two examples explain how the artist used visual weight to create balance in this work. Childe Hassam, Boston Common at Twilight, 1885-86

Answer 1

In the first painting the focal point is the part of the lobster:

• The major portion is occupied by the lower part. Red color is used for for marking the focal point.
• The portion has been focused so that the attention first goes to this part.
• Other things like utensils are not focused and it means that these things are not so important.

In the second image, the visual weight is very significant. With the use of contrast of light all the parts of the landscape, human beings and vegetation have been shown:

• The sunlight of the setting or morning sun is separately marked.
• In the dim light the dress looks black as the separate colors are not distinctly realized.
• Hilly areas covered with vegetation and the barren ground are also distinctly shown.