• Focal Point: A focal point is the primary area or main subject of visual emphasis in watercolor, designed to draw the viewer’s eye and convey the artwork’s central idea or emotion.

• Area of Interest: An area of interest may be used if there is no focal point or, if a focal point is used, an area of interest is a secondary combination of elements that support the focal point, adding balance and guiding the viewer through the composition.

Here are some guidelines to establish a clear, strong focal point:

1. Identify Your Motivation

Ask, “Why am I painting this scene?” The answer often reveals your natural focal point—whether it’s a play of light, a striking color contrast, or a specific emotional element…or if a focal point is even desirable. Here are some compositional guidelines to position a focal point:en

• Rule of Thirds: Position the focal point near intersecting lines dividing the canvas into thirds, i.e., thirds points (vertically and horizontally)

• Avoid Central Placement: Keep the focal point away from the middle lines to prevent static compositions

• Leading Lines: Use roads, rivers, architectural lines or other artistic means to guide the viewer’s eye toward the focal area

2. Build Contrast

• Value Contrast: Place the darkest darks against the lightest lights at the focal point

• Color Saturation: Introduce the most vivid hues in the focal area against muted surroundings

• Edge Sharpness: Use crisp, detailed edges for the focal point and soft, blurred and/or lost and found edges elsewhere

3. Simplify Remaining Supporting Elements

• Reduce Detail: Keep non-focal areas loose and abstract to avoid competition with the focal point

• Muted Backgrounds: Cool down distant elements (e.g., blues/greys) to push them back visually

4. Constantly Review During Creation

• Pause and Assess: Step back periodically while painting to check if the focal point dominates naturally

• Adjust Contrast: Amplify value, color and/or edge differences if the eye wanders elsewhere