How to create a balanced visual composition?
3 Answers By Expert Tutors
Alison N. answered 05/14/25
Painting and Drawing Expert
There are many techniques that can be used to create a composition. Bilateral symmetry creates balance and radial creates more movement. No one area should feel heavier than another. There is also the rule of thirds or the golden spiral. These are useful to learn but ultimately do what feels best for you as rules like these can be limiting to your creativity. Over time, creating compositions that feel balanced will become easier.

Lee S. answered 08/20/23
BFA in Drawing and Painting with 10+ Years of Teaching Experience
Balance can be deceiving. We may aim for perfect balance but, ultimately, make our work dull and stilted. Careful to strive for perfect balance and seek, instead, harmony while giving attention to each area of your composition in terms of controlling the flow of the eye like a conductor before his/her orchestra. Let notes settle quietly and pool before springing forth in a loud cadence or singing quietly in discontent. Perhaps then all elements will harmonize with the final crescendo climax you seek. Studying the greats like Rembrandt's The Prodigal Son and specific general "rules" emerge. Some say to divide the composition into thirds, much like some musical notes harmonize naturally with one another. It can be seen as well in the 2D arts, certain mathematical sections reveal themselves. Lastly, give just as much attention to, if not more, the negative spaces, and a switch in your thinking may surprise you.

Renee M. answered 03/29/23
Patient tutor who is here to help!
There are many ways to achieve a balanced visual composition. I suggest studying the Fibonacci spiral or the Rule Of Thirds. Some of the greatest works of art and design have followed this "rule". Perhaps you will find this link helpful: https://artincontext.org/fibonacci-sequence-in-art/
Cheers and happy creating!
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Nels S.
I teach observational drawing and visual perspective step-by-step03/28/23