“Whitespace is like air: it is necessary for design to breathe.” -Wojciech Zielinski
The previous tutorial covered a general overview of the Structure Composition and eight variations. This art design tutorial describes the Frame Device plus all the variations.
Frame Composition
Framing in graphic design is a powerful tool that isolates, highlights or defines key elements within a composition, guiding the viewer’s focus with intention. Unlike an external border, framing as a design device works within the artwork, using shapes, contrast, or spatial divisions to create emphasis.
Frame’s use can lead the eye toward a focal point, separate content for clarity, or reinforce the overall structure of the design. By strategically using the framing device, designers can control how information is perceived and ensure that key elements stand out without overwhelming the composition.
Beyond emphasis, framing also adds depth and context to a design. It can create containment, reinforce hierarchy and visual storytelling, or introduce negative space that enhances balance and readability.
Framing can be bold and directive, using strong lines or high contrast or subtle, using implied shapes and color shifts to softly guide attention.
Whether used to create separation, unity, or movement within a piece, framing organizes visual information and enhances the effectiveness of a design.
Frame One Dominant
Frame used to isolate a One Dominant subordinate element is a statement of the visual image’s intent to convey a message about the artwork.
In our example, the frame anchors the star instead of it appearing to float on the canvas.
The subtle weight of the frame isn’t about creating negative or positive space. It’s used to pull the concept together and act as an anchor.
Imagine the artwork without the Frame. The tonal elements lack interest until the frame adds definition.
Frame Two Dominant
In this example, the Frame design feature mirrors the concept of the Two Dominant subordinate elements using angles.
The Frame has a purpose. It defines white space, making it appear energetic and adding interest to the explosiveness of the firecracker element.
The Two Dominant subordinate elements are the firecracker and the descriptive typography.
Remember, if the Two Dominant design device were primary, the artwork’s design would not touch the edges of the canvas. This makes the Frame feature primary.
Frame Pattern
Frame Pattern as a compositional strategy is quite universal in textile design.
Remember, the Frame feature is dominant, and the Pattern device supports the artwork.
The rendered frame can and might not extend to the boundary of the canvas.
In this example, a variety of patterns are infused into the design, covering the entire surface, yet the Frame is still visually dominant.
Frame Negative Positive
The Frame device in this image is rendered in more than one placement.
The light green white space and subtle textured negative space complete the subordinate style in this example.
Negative Positive rendering can be subtle or striking depending on the intent an artist wants to convey.
Art Nouveau emerged during 1890 and through about 1910 and is a classic genre that widely uses framing and Negative Positive construction along with flowing lines and shapes from nature.
This beautiful style was most widely used in interior design, graphic arts, furniture, glass art, textiles, ceramics, jewelry and metal work.
Aubrey Beardsley is one of my favorite artists, and I still draw inspiration from him. You might consider adding one of his reference books to your art history collection. A classic favorite is Treasury of Art Nouveau Design and Ornament which contains almost 600 examples.
Frame Movement
Frame Movement offers the eye a way to move around the canvas and the learn about the subject.
In this example the idea of a swaying palm tree is featured in a flowing frame.
The rest of the subtle design moves and flows through repetition from one corner to the next.
Nature elements lend well to movement, and they also are featured in patterned art.
Frame Structure
If you want to become a better artist change up your style occasionally. Creating art is an endless journey and it can be exceptionally stimulating for brain health to try out new composition styles.
No matter what type of art medium, experimenting with how you structure and layer elements will expand your skill and keep your follower’s desire to check in and follow your inspiration.
In this example the subordinate Structure is build into the primary Frame device. The white space could include design elements. By keeping the concept opaque it could be a template for future development.
Frame Frame
Can you see how Frame is both primary and secondary? By doubling the device, it builds on the illusion of layers.
The orange background layer could be a stand-alone design. However, by adding another design built on a framing strategy, interest is delivered through color, lines, shape, and multiple placements of framing objects.
Even photography can build on doubling down on the Frame device!
Imagine a bird sitting on a window sill framed by the rectangular shape holding the glass window pane.
Now, step back, and the siding or materials where the window is placed become the secondary frame.
Imagination is a form of knowledge and experience expressed to create a moving or emotional response!
Frame Perspective
Frame Perspective composition is an effective way to showcase elements found in environmental art.
In this example, the framing elements touching the boundary of the artwork also create a sensation of perspective.
The subordinate perspective landscape design showcases the composition’s intent.
The landscape may appear primary to the eye, but the composition’s structure uses Frame as its primary composition.
Combining design devices becomes an art form, and the viewer may never understand how complexity becomes a simple and singular statement that’s so thoughtfully delivered.
ArtPlay
You Can’t Use Up Creativity – Maya Angelou
Creativity isn’t a finite resource—it expands the more you engage with it. Journaling and thumbnailing are potent ways to exercise artistic thinking daily, allowing ideas to flow freely without the pressure of a finished piece.
By sketching small composition variations, experimenting with shapes, and jotting down visual notes, you train your brain to recognize patterns, refine techniques, and generate fresh concepts effortlessly.
Remember to carry your art journal with you everywhere you go! You might even enjoy scheduling a date with you in a favorite “third place,” like a coffee shop to enjoy uninterrupted creative time.
Like a musician who plays scales or a dancer who rehearses movements, an artist builds creative endurance through repetition. Over time, these small, consistent practice acts strengthen intuition and unlock new levels of artistic expression. The more you create, the more creativity you have to draw from—so keep filling the pages.
Downloadable Art Reference Sheet
The next tutorial covers variations for the next set of eight devices, and how the Perspective Compositional Device is expressed in each one.
To find links to every lesson, click > Art & Design Tutorial Table of Contents
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