- Twelve classic design motifs make

composition simple - Six variations on a design theme for each

motif, plus ten artist examples in styles

from realistic to abstract - Great for beginners, illuminating for pros

Composition is one of the great puzzles of watercolor painting. Watercolor by Design solves that puzzle! Author Marianne Brown shows artists how to create innovative paintings using twelve classic design motifs, grouped by type: cruciform, horizontal bar, and vertical bar; checkerboard, asymmetric, and staggered grids; radial, cantilever, and pyramid; and frame in frame, allover pattern, and floating shapes. The properties and impact of each motif are explained, then reinforced with six variations on a design theme for each motif, followed by at least ten creative examples by different artists working in different styles from realism to abstract to illustrate the possibilities. Packed with ideas and information, Watercolor by Design lets both new and experienced artists make composition work for them.