Horizontal or Vertical Painting, Which is Better?
Somebody recently asked me which is better, a horizontal or vertical painting. I don’t think there is a straightforward answer to such a question.
Artists choose to paint in different formats, whether horizontal, vertical, diagonal or square, based on several factors that can influence the composition and message of their artwork.
Some of these factors could be due to:
- Subject matter
- Composition
- Storytelling or narrative
- Display consideration
- Personal preference
It’s important to note that these reasons are not fixed rules and artists often experiment with different art formats to push creative boundaries and explore new possibilities.
The choice of art format is subjective and can vary based on the artist’s intentions, artistic vision, visual aesthetic and the specific artwork subject in question.
Horizontal or vertical painting? I like these types of questions. I find them very intriguing and inspiring.
It happened when I was visiting a local art gallery and talking to some other visitors about some of the abstract paintings on display.
One of the ladies asked me, which is better, a horizontal or vertical painting. She was considering buying an abstract painting but wasn’t sure whether she should go for a horizontal or vertical painting.
In a way, she had a valid argument in the sense that a representational type of art may be easier to identify its art format. The general theory is horizontal art format may be best suited for landscapes and seascapes. Vertical art format, on the other hand, is generally better for portraits and figurative paintings.
That’s very true, but these are general theories that may apply to some subjects but not necessarily all subjects. These are not rules.
Abstract art adds other challenges to these theories because abstract art, particularly non-representational art, doesn’t attempt to represent real objects.
I enjoy writing and sharing ideas and thoughts about abstract art. And I will refer to abstract art to explain more about the main topic of this blog post, horizontal or vertical painting.
I have included some of my abstract paintings to show the different painting formats, horizontal, vertical and diagonal.
One other important note that is a horizontal or vertical painting format/orientation doesn’t have to follow the format of the canvas. For example, a vertical painting can be made on a horizontal canvas, and vice versa.
So, let’s find out which is better, a horizontal or vertical painting.
What do horizontal and vertical mean in art?
Simply, the terms “horizontal” and “vertical” in art refer to the direction and orientation of shapes, lines or compositions within a piece of artwork.
What is a horizontal format in art?
A horizontal format in art or a horizontal painting refers to dominant shapes or lines that are parallel to the horizon or the earth’s surface when viewed in landscape orientation.
It suggests stability, calmness and a sense of relaxation. Horizontal art format can create a feeling of balance and can be found in elements such as horizons, flat landscapes or objects that lie flat on a surface.
What is a vertical format in art?
Vertical art format or vertical painting, on the other hand, refers to dominant lines and shapes that run straight up or down.
It implies strength, stability and a sense of energy or upward movement. Vertical lines or shapes can create a feeling of stability and can be found in elements such as tall buildings, trees, portraits or figures standing upright.
Both horizontal and vertical orientations can be used effectively in composition to convey different emotions, balance or visual interest.
Artists often manipulate these orientations to create visual tension and balance or to direct the viewers to the movements or directions within a piece of artwork.
Why do artists use horizontal or vertical formats?
I’m sure the meaning of horizontal and vertical art formats is simple to understand. Now, let’s talk about the difference in composition in both formats.
As I mentioned earlier, there are various factors to be considered when creating a painting. I will use abstract art as an example but similar factors can be used for making representational art.
What is the difference between vertical and horizontal composition?
The composition in art, including abstract painting, can be influenced by the choice of a horizontal or vertical format, impacting how the elements within the artwork are arranged and how the viewer’s eye moves across the canvas. I will explain some of the ways in which composition can be affected by these formats:
Horizontal composition format:
- Creating a sense of width and stability: The horizontal painting format emphasises width and horizontal lines, providing a sense of stability and calmness. It can be particularly effective in representing landscapes or expansive scenes as it allows for the depiction of the broad expanse of a horizon.
- Exploring the interplay of horizontal elements: Artists might experiment with how horizontal shapes or lines are arranged within the composition. For example, they may create a sense of rhythm or repetition through horizontal elements or experiment with variations in thickness, scale or texture to add visual interest and depth.
- Encouraging a left-to-right reading: The horizontal painting style frequently directs the viewer’s eye from left to right or vice versa, mimicking the natural reading direction in many cultures. Artists can use this tendency to their advantage, creating a sense of progression or narrative within the composition.
Vertical composition format:
- Emphasising height and verticality: Naturally, the vertical painting format emphasises height and vertical lines and shapes. This painting format can be used by artists, including abstract artists, to give the composition a sense of upward movement or a vertical rhythm. It can be especially powerful in evoking feelings of aspiration, growth or the sublime.
- Balancing vertical and horizontal elements: The vertical painting format encourages the artists to think carefully about how vertical and horizontal elements relate and connect to one another in the composition. Vertical shapes and lines may be juxtaposed against horizontal elements to create visual tension or a harmonious pleasing balance.
- Guiding the viewer’s eye: In a composition that is vertical, the viewer’s eye is more inclined to travel vertically from top to bottom. By using the direction, artists can guide the viewer’s attention and create a narrative or visual flow within the artwork. Vertical shapes, forms, patterns and lines can help guide the viewer’s eye along the composition.
Whether horizontal or vertical painting format, it’s crucial to remember that these are merely generalisations and that artists are free to experiment and challenge these expectations to create unique compositions.
The choice of format is only one part of the composition and regardless of the format, artists can combine different elements of colour, shape, line and texture to create dynamic engaging artworks.
I have written other blog posts about The Composition in Abstract Art and The Elements of Abstract Art if you are interested to learn more about these subjects.
Factors influencing format choice
Here are some of the factors which can influence the use of horizontal or vertical painting formats.
#1. Subject matter
The subject an artist chooses to paint can influence the format choice. Certain subjects, like portraits or figures, may work well in a vertical format because it enables a more accurate depiction of the human form. On the other hand, landscapes or expansive scenes may be best captured in a horizontal format.
#2. Composition
When creating artwork, artists think about visual harmony and how the various elements within the artwork are arranged. The format can affect the composition by influencing the viewer’s eye movement across the painting.
A vertical composition in art can create a sense of height and emphasise vertical elements, while a horizontal composition format can convey a feeling of width and accentuate horizontal elements.
#3. Narrative or storytelling
Sometimes, artists will use the format to enhance the narrative or storytelling aspect of their artwork. A horizontal painting format could be used to illustrate a broad panoramic perspective or a linear sequence of events. Whereas a vertical format could be used to display a towering figure or emphasise a sense of upward movement.
#4. Display considerations
Format selection may also be influenced by the context or location of the intended display. For example, the artist may select a format that best utilises the space available if the piece of art is intended for a certain wall or exhibition space.
#5. Personal preference and artistic style
Ultimately, artists have their own unique aesthetic preferences and styles that can influence their choice of format.
Some artists may have a natural inclination or preference for painting in a certain format, which becomes part of their recognisable style.
Although I paint in horizontal and vertical formats, somehow, I prefer creating my abstract paintings in a vertical format. Not so sure why, though!
It is worth noting that these factors are not fixed rules. These are just guidelines. Artists often experiment with different formats and orientations. The choice of format, horizontal or vertical, remains subjective.
What are the psychological effects of a horizontal or vertical painting?
Each painting format, horizontal or vertical, can have different psychological effects on our moods. These are usually influenced by several factors such as the content, composition, colour palette and individual interpretation. I will list a few general psychological effects associated with horizontal and vertical paintings.
Horizontal paintings
#1. Calmness and serenity: Horizontal lines and shapes can evoke a sense of peacefulness and tranquillity. A horizontal painting composition may create a relaxing and soothing atmosphere, promoting a feeling of stability and balance.
#2. Stability: Horizontal paintings are associated with the earth’s horizon and can convey a sense of stability. This can contribute to a feeling of security and comfort in the viewer. This is one of the reasons that landscapes and seascapes are the most popular styles of visual art.
#3. Relaxation: Horizontal compositions can suggest a sense of rest and repose. They can create a visual flow that encourages the eye to move smoothly from one side to the other, mirroring the natural movement of the eye while reading or looking at landscape scenes.
Vertical paintings
#1. Strength and power: Vertical shapes and lines usually imply a sense of strength and upward movement. A vertical painting composition can evoke a feeling of height, grandeur and aspiration. It may also convey a sense of authority and dominance.
#2. Energy and dynamism: Vertical paintings often create a sense of energy and vitality. They can suggest upward motion or growth, evoking a feeling of optimism and ambition.
#3. Elevation and spirituality: Vertical compositions can be associated with the divine and the transcendent. They can evoke a sense of spirituality, awe and a connection to something greater than oneself.
This video by Ian Roberts provides further explanation about horizontal and vertical art formats – How to Engage the Horizontal and the Vertical.
Examples of famous vertical and horizontal paintings
There are many great examples of famous vertical and horizontal paintings, but I will highlight a few great examples of famous abstract vertical and horizontal paintings. Here are some examples of abstract paintings.
Examples of famous abstract artists who preferred to paint vertically
- Jackson Pollock, Blue Poles (also known as Number 11), 1952
“Blue Poles” is an iconic abstract painting by Jackson Pollock (1912-1956). It features energetic and expressive vertical drips and splatters of paint on a large canvas. The vertical lines create a sense of movement and dynamism, showcasing Pollock’s signature “drip painting” technique.
- Barnett Newman, Vir Heroicus Sublimis, 1950-51
“Vir Heroicus Sublimis” is a monumental abstract painting by Barnett Newman (1905-1970). It consists of vertical colour fields, predominantly in shades of red, separated by vertical “zips” or thin lines. The vertical orientation emphasises the height and grandeur of the artwork, evoking a sense of spiritual transcendence.
- Mark Rothko, No. 14, 1960
“No. 14” is a mesmerising abstract painting by Mark Rothko (1903-1970). It features vertically stacked rectangular colour fields., with vibrant hues blending and interacting. The vertical painting format intensified the emotional impact of the colours inviting viewers into a contemplative and immersive experience.
Examples of famous abstract artists who preferred to paint horizontally
- Helen Frankenthaler, The Bay, 1963
“The Bay” is a renowned abstract painting by Helen Frankenthaler (1928-2011). It features flowing, horizontal washes of vibrant colours, evoking the serene atmosphere of a coastal landscape. The horizontal composition captures a sense of expansiveness and tranquillity, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in the scene.
- Helen Frankenthaler, Mountains and Sea, 1952
“Mountains and Sea” is one of the most famous paintings by Helen Frankenthaler. The artwork employs fluid, horizontal colour washes to create a sense of serenity and evoke the experience of nature. The horizontal painting format allows the colours to cascade and blend, immersing the viewer in a tranquil and expansive vista.
- Piet Mondrian, Composition with Red, Yellow and Blue, 1930
“Composition with Red, Yellow and Blue” is an iconic abstract painting by Piet Mondrian (1872-1944). It consists of horizontal and vertical black lines intersecting to form rectangular colour blocks. The horizontal lines create a sense of stability and balance, while the primary colours add vibrancy and harmony.
Final thoughts about which is better, horizontal or vertical painting
I have always wondered why I prefer to create vertical abstract paintings. I enjoy making long vertical canvas paintings and vertical wall art.
I do make horizontal abstract paintings sometimes, but I always feel more comfortable with long vertical compositions. I still don’t know why.
I totally understand and appreciate the differences and meanings of the different formats as well as the potential effects on our moods.
At the end of the day, it’s a personal preference. Every artist chooses his/her suitable format. However, it’s crucial to recognise that artistic preferences and their psychological implications can vary significantly among artists.
The choice of horizontal or vertical painting format remains a personal expression of the artist’s intention and creativity. It’s only one aspect of the artistic journey.
As for the viewer or art collector/buyer who is considering buying a painting to hang on a wall in their home, perhaps they would have to consider several similar elements as mentioned in this blog in addition to their personal preference.
Personal preference, in my opinion, is what counts at the end of the day.
What is your personal preference, horizontal or vertical painting?
Let me know your thoughts in the comments section below.
Other blog posts related to choosing and displaying abstract art in your home:
