"Exactly! The raging mountain stream is the focal point of my painting. How did I guide your eye here first?

• I chose an interesting subject to grab your attention. The rushing river reveals the power of nature.
• The light colors of the water contrast with dark colors of the rest of the painting. My focal point is the brightest part of my painting.
• The frothing, whitewater texture creates movement which attracts your eye.
• The location of the river is also important. It is in the center of the page—right where we tend to look first.
• The stream is a strong diagonal line which slices through the middle of my composition. Diagonal lines always create movement and excitement in a painting!

"Ach, the wind is getting stronger. And those clouds look dangerous—I like danger in my paintings, but I try to avoid it myself. I think we should leave!"

"What did you say?"

"Run!"