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What is EMPHASIS?
A particular area or element in an artwork that stands out and captures attention. It tells us what is important in an artwork, and is also known as the focal point.
How do we create EMPHASIS in Art?
The strategies to create emphasis are similar to those for creating contrast. However, the difference is:
Emphasis - how one element stands out from the rest.
Contrast - how two or more elements are different from one another.
Size
Make focal point bigger/smaller
McDonald's Poster
Burger at bottom right stands out due to its bigger size.
Shape/Form
The Gherkin in London (Architecture)
Rounded appearance makes it stand out from the surrounding buildings.
Colour
Girl in Red Coat (Movie Scene) from Schindler's List
Girl's red coat makes her stand out from the crowd.
Texture
Sunflowers (4th Version), 1888, Oil on Canvas, Vincent Van Gogh
The textured sunflowers make them stand out from the background.
Isolation
Placing the focal point alone
Christina's World, 1948, Tempera on Panel, Andrew Wyeth
Solitary figure lying in an open field becomes the focal point.
Value
Make focal point lighter/darker than other elements
Liberty Leading the People, 1830, Oil on Canvas, Eugene Delacroix
Female figure is the brightest, placing emphasis on her.
Placement/Position
Positioning the focal point at the center
The Last Supper, 1495 - 1498, Tempera on Gesso, Pitch and Mastic, Leonardo Da Vinci
Jesus Christ is placed at the exact centre of the painting, making him the most central/important figure.
Leading Lines
Title Unknown (Photograph), Fan Ho
Line of shadow leads viewer's eyes to the woman, placing emphasis on her.
Words and phrases to use when talking about EMPHASIS
Focus
Focal point
Brings attention to
Draws our attention
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