Favorite Design Stems from Composition of Outdoor Painting by Edgar Payne

Portrait of Edgar Alwin Payne (March 1st 1883 – April 8th 1947) in multicolored ballpoint pen and casein. Payne was an American painter. He was known as a Western landscape painter and muralist. He also was known as a great teacher. He wrote a seminal book on landscape painting wrote “Composition of Outdoor Painting”, a comprehensive book on composition and composition forms. The book also explains landscape painting techniques, color, repetition, rhythm, and value.

Edgar Alwin Payne’s *Composition of Outdoor Painting* is a comprehensive guide to the principles of creating compelling outdoor artwork. Written for painters, especially landscape artists, the book focuses on the technical and artistic aspects of composition, color theory, and design. Payne emphasizes the importance of planning and structure, providing practical advice on how to capture the essence of nature while maintaining artistic expression.

The book is divided into discussions on design, composition, values, color harmony, and the psychological elements of art. Payne encourages painters to approach their work with a balance of analytical precision and emotional intuition, ensuring that their compositions are both structurally sound and evocative. He underscores the significance of understanding light, shadow, and atmospheric effects to create dynamic, lifelike scenes.

At the core of the book is Payne’s exploration of compositional design stems, which serve as foundational templates for arranging visual elements effectively. These stems help artists achieve balance, rhythm, and unity in their work.

List of many of my favorite Design Stems Referenced in the Book include the following.

You can also watch video of the process followed to create each of the thumbnail images shown below 👇

1. Steelyard

A balanced composition where a large object is counterbalanced by a smaller object or group of objects, much like a scale.

2. Balance Scale

A symmetrical arrangement where visual elements are evenly distributed on both sides of a central axis.

3. Circle or O”-Shape

Elements are arranged to create a circular or oval flow, leading the viewer’s eye around the composition. A circular or oval arrangement that encloses the subject, creating a sense of unity and completeness.

4. “S”-Curve and Compound Curve

A winding, serpentine line that guides the eye through the painting, creating a sense of rhythm and movement.

Compound Curve Similar to the S-curve but with more complex, interwoven curves that create dynamic movement.

5. “L”-Shape or Rectangular Design

A dominant vertical and horizontal element form an "L," framing the composition and directing the viewer’s focus.

6. Radiating Lines

Lines or elements that converge toward a central point, drawing the viewer’s attention to a focal area.

7. Triangle or Pyramid

A triangular arrangement of elements, often used to create stability and a clear hierarchy of focus.

8. Cross

A composition featuring intersecting horizontal and vertical elements, often creating a central point of interest.

9. Suspended Steel Yard

A composition with strong horizontal elements connected by upward or downward arcs, creating a rhythmic flow.

10. Diagonal Lines

Strong diagonal elements create dynamic energy and a sense of direction.

11. Tunnel

Framework that guides the viewer's eye through a scene in a way that evokes depth and engagement.

Payne’s *Composition of Outdoor Painting* serves as both a technical manual and an artistic manifesto. His emphasis on design stems provides painters with a toolkit for creating compositions that are not only visually harmonious but also emotionally engaging. These foundational principles remain invaluable for artists seeking to balance creativity with structural integrity in their work.

The basic formats found within these designs stems can be combined within painting designs. They often can be incorporated in very subtle ways and quite obvious ways as well.

Here is a link to my 10-minute book summary for this classic painting book 📕

Additionally here’s a recent video where I demonstrate the construction of thumbnail sketches involving 11 of my favorite design stems from “composition of outdoor painting.”