The Importance of Design
by Ned Mueller
One could say design is the arrangement and relationships of the lights, darks, and halftones of the major color shapes in a painting. It is not easy to define with a few words. I also like to tell my students that a well-designed painting is “an interesting arrangement of shapes and colors.” Not a perfect saying, but it helps to understand the concept better. Also, it could be applied to “abstract” and “traditional” work.
In design, "balance is unbalanced” - one wants to look for “unequal-ness.” Sameness can be very dull. I think that most paintings are ruined at the start because not enough thought or time is spent figuring out the design. A classic example would be a large dark shape on one side of the painting that is equally balanced by a small dark shape on the other side… being the same again is boring! I suggest trying a value study using only three or four values.
“You will soon start to trust your own instincts. Your studies will guide you and tell you what they need”
Usually, a light, one or two mid-tones, and a dark value will help you understand how many different ways to create a good design. You will clearly see what needs to be edited or what needs to be added. Many studies and trial and error will make you better. You will soon start to trust your instincts. Your studies will guide you and tell you what they need; larger or smaller shapes, more lights, fewer lights, and so forth. All this time, you will develop your eyes to sense what looks right and how to make it work for a compelling design. Remember to practice often and enjoy the process.
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