In the composition design process, the artist decides upon a focal point within the painting.  The development of the painting then becomes the process of strengthening that focal point, culminating in establishing the final details within that focal point.  In other words, the artist decides the message he/she wants to express and the focal point conveys that message.

The Painting Animals workshop recently brought together a diverse group of animal subjects, ranging from pets to farm animals to wildlife.  Over the course of the day, the workshop participants progressed from prioritizing photo references, composition design and underpainting strategies to developing fur depth and coloring to the fine details that bring the animal to life.