Scott demonstrates composing with a limited number of lines on a scene in which the ground plane dominant.
Begin by identifying the major shapes in the scene -- limit yourself to shapes that can be described with "ten lines".
There is no magic to the number 10 -- describe the major shapes in as few lines as possible.
Often you will use "ten lines" to decide the amount and shape of the major planes (sky, vertical, slanted and ground).
Experiment with different placement, size and form for the major shapes.
The idea isn't to render the scene exactly as you see it. The scene will change based on your location within the landscape and / or the time of day. Imagine these changes and experiment with their impact.
Use "ten lines" to divide your surface into interesting spaces.
Placement first. Work on refining your drawings after placement has been determined.
Using one of your ideas that you compiled in the previous lesson, do at least 5-10 "10 Line Drawings". Develop at least three alternative compositions using a limited number of lines in a small sketch. You should be using your own photographs from the previous lesson as we are working on finding your own ideas.
Remember your other tools that we have discussed such as limited vocabulary, etc. to help find your placement.
Remember also to refer to your journaling regarding your scenes. What makes you feel alive about a certain place? What made you want to capture it? This journaling will help guide you in your decision-making process as you hone in who your "main character" will be.
Will you emphasize the sky? Middle ground? Foreground?
Very important: collecting your ideas and putting 10 lines to them in various ways will help formulate a large number of your concepts so you are not chasing your tail (or someone else's tail, LOL).
Keep in mind: sometimes we have to make more interesting shapes than those that are right in front of us. Sometimes we have to change the color of the horse or the color of the tree to make it fit into the entire concept.
Thank you for being a Continuing Education member! These additional supporting videos are available as part of your membership. Enjoy!
