What makes a great composition? For artists, and for art lovers

Composition, although hidden, plays a foundational role in the success of a painting. Ian Roberts, the author of Mastering Composition, which has sold over 45,000 copies, gives a weekly 3-5 minute discussion of compositional structure in both a photograph and an historical painting.

[merrillsooley]

I am a daily oil painter. Before I pick up my brushes, I start each session with a a coffee, a few of your videos followed by a 20 minute drawing session. I find that since I have discovered your YouTube channel I have become increasing conscious of composition in my drawings and paintings. I truly appreciate all of your tips. Thank you. Merrill Sooley - Newfoundland, Canada

[andrzejmaranda]

SOOO INTERESTING, INFORMATIVE & VALUABLE video! THANK YOU SOOO MUCH, Ian!

[dianeo]

This is the EXACT video I've been looking for. Thank you for diagramming the visuals. Looking forward to this series!

[chicoartist]

Can’t be reminded enough of these timeless and proven principles - no plan, no foundation = house won’t stand for long. Thx!

[kathysfineart]

Thank you Ian. I am looking at photos with new eyes.

[ateljeavesaltus]

I am so happy I stumbled over this, this is filled with high quality, educational knowledge, very well explained in a sympathetic way. Excellent, thank you Ian.
B Lindeberg - Sweden

[pmhart]

Great reminder of the importance of composition.... to keep focused on the structure of the painting from the outset.

[lisarnful]

That Sorolla painting amazes me with the curved shape dominance and value linking. Wow...what a master of composition

[Туристизмирамертвых]

Thank you, Ian! You are the best teacher I have ever met in my life. I've learned more in two weeks of studying your classes than I've learned in a long life. And this is just the start!

[hhtrue]

Your videos are so enjoyable to watch and incredibly helpful, Ian. Thank you for sharing and teaching so generously!

[janettepolt]

It's brilliant to keep these short. Sometimes I see something I'd really like to watch but it's an hour and I don't have that time. thanks, you rock star!

[suarezromelia]

I became really glad to receive this email. I have worked as a teacher many years and have been a student also. I have had many teachers along my life and I can tell you are one of the best. Thank you!
Romelia - Sweden

[joanistotler]

Love these videos, Ian! Thanks for sharing!

[lachutequimarche]

What an incredible teaching style and confident explanations that are so accessible. Truly a legendary educator that could make any subject truly fascinating.

[frankt]

Thank you Ian. It amazes me how much composition can make or break a painting.

[natalykenny]

Thank you, Ian! After reading your Mastering Composition book, the first thing that crosses my mind while looking to any pictures is the structure and the armature. Amazing how the eye gets trained to see correctly. Thank you for the book as well.❤

[JyotiSingh-rgfl]

Sir I am learning so much from your videos. I can actually now understand about composition and so many other points which was never clear. You are great teacher.

[petermorrison]

Thanks for sharing your expertise. I've struggled with paintings and end up not finishing them because I think "this is boring." These lessons are just what I need. This also an art appreciation course in disguise.

[solea]

Another great inspirational video ! Thank you Ian . Sorolla is a great favourite of mine and Sargent too .Well presented !

[kathleenflanagan]

You are an amazing teacher. Truly a master. I thank you for this opportunity,