Arabesque (Curve) Composition

One of the most elegant compositions we can incorporate into our visual artistry: the arabesque (curve):

Why arabesque?

The word “arabesque” comes from “Arab” (Arabian). A lot of the elegant arabesque designs come from mostly ancient Islamic art. Think calligraphy, or elegant flowing movements:

Also interesting to know, the “arabesque” is also a ballerina move:

Reminds me of a photo I shot of Cindy, with a similar movement:

Why arabesque composition?

Ultimately the concept of a curved arabesque comes from nature. Consider twisting vines and trees.

To me, I love the composition because it is more dynamic, full of life, energy and vigor!

1. Study sculpture

Note how the bodies of many dynamic statues are curved and quite epic:

2. Matisse the dance

4. Arabesque of human body

Human anatomy is a great point to study composition:

5. Henri Cartier-Bresson arabesque/curve compositions

Also see Street Photography Curve Compositions >

More Henri Cartier Bresson composition:

Composition 101

ERIC KIM X ANNETTE KIM X BAUHAUS REMIX

Master composition for yourself:

Photography Composition Tips

Color Theory

Color wheel theory: Dynamic tension between opposing colors. Image from CREATIVE EVERY DAY

Learn From the Masters of Composition

Sergio Larrain Compositions

Dynamic Photography Composition 101

Leading lines. ERIC KIM DYNAMIC COMPOSITION

Painting Compositions

Vermeer

Dynamic Photography Composition Tips

Chiaroscuro. DYNAMIC LIGHT AND SHADOW. Hanoi, 2016 by ERIC KIM

Composition Theory

Dynamic low angle composition. Tokyo, 2011 by ERIC KIM

Take your composition to the next level:

Street Photography Composition 101

DYNAMIC REFLECTIONS. Man and three reflections by ERIC KIM

For distilled lessons on composition, read the free ebook: “The Street Photography Composition Manual.”

Further articles to improve your compositions in photography:

Composition Theory

Woman and door. Chiaroscuro. DYNAMIC LIGHT AND SHADOW. Hanoi, 2016 by ERIC KIM

Learn compositional theory:

Compositional lessons from the masters of art

Composition lectures

Composition pictures/grids

Eric Kim photography Bauhaus Piet Mondrian

Golden Diagonal Composition

Golden Diagonal Composition / Kyoto Station, 2018