​Gamut in Composition

Gamut in composition means the artist is using a limited number of directions in their drawing, painting, or photograph. By limiting the number of directions an artist uses, it won't overwhelm and confuse the viewer. Generally speaking, most master artists will only use 5­-7 different directions in a work of art. Also, in a masterpiece, those directions will come from a Dynamic Symmetry grid. The photograph below, taken at an American Red Cross holiday party, demonstrates the repeated Sinister diagonal line in the 1.5 rectangle. To learn more composition tips, click here.