A triptych is a painting or carving

that has three side-by-side parts, or

panels. Typically, a triptych has
three hinged panels, the two outer
panels designed so that they can be
folded in towards the central one.
"Triptych" has come to us from the Greek
"triptychos," formed by combining "tri-" ("three")
and "ptyche" ("fold" or "layer"). Although
"triptych" originally described a specific type of
Roman writing tablet that had three hinged
panels, it makes sense that the word was
adopted first for a three-paneled painting, and
then to include anything composed of three
parts.
The related modern word "trifold" is popularly
used to describe a common brochure format with
two and three folds; or three hinged boards for
museum, educational, commercial, and other
displays.

This was a common form for an altarpiece during
the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. The side
panels were typically hinged to the central one
so that they could be closed over it, and in this
case reverse sides were often painted.
-Artlex Art Dictionary




By Lily Neff LRHS 2015
By Natalia Richter LRHS 2014
is to draw from observation to create a 3 panel
piece. The panels can vary in size. The media is
your choice. You must draw from direct
observation or from photos that you take.

By Manny Mones LRHS 2014
By Manny Mones LRHS 2014

Balance - is a feeling of equal visual weight. Balance can be symmetrical or evenly balanced
or asymmetrical and unevenly balanced. Objects represented or elements included can be used in
creating a balance in a composition.

Harmony/Unity - brings together a composition with similar units. If your composition
was using wavy lines and organic shapes you would stay with those types of lines and not put in
just one geometric shape.

Contrast - offers some change in the art elements creating a visual discord in a composition.
Contrast shows the difference between elements and can be used as a background to bring
objects out and forward in a design.

Emphasis/Center of interest - is an area that first attracts attention in a
composition. This area is more important when compared to the other objects or elements in a
composition. This can be by contrast of values, more colors, and placement in the format.

Movement/Rhythm - is a visual flow through the composition. It can be the
suggestion of motion in a design as you move from object to object by way of placement and
position. Rhythm is a movement in which some elements recur regularly. Like a dance it will have
a flow of objects that will seem to be like the beat of music.

Pattern- is a repetition of the elements of art, such as stripes or plaid.


For next class, on Thursday 9/9 you are to
have two possible compositional sketches
completed (Worth 25 points)
You can use the templates on the center
table or draw in your sketchbook.
Your sketches do not have to be detailed but
should focus on the subject and the design
principle.
Bring also any visual references that you
used for your sketches.
You will be refining your best idea in class