For are next lesson we are going to move on to Composition. Wikipedia explains composition as “the placement or arrangement of visual elements or ingredients in a work of art, as distinct from the subject of a work. It can also be thought of as the organization of the elements of art according to the principles of art” (Wikipedia). This placement or arrangement of elements is a very basic and important part of art. And it can be the deciding factor in deciding if your art work is successful or not. Because of this it would be wise to take time to study composition in greater depth than most.
Now as in most of the other introduction sections I will give you some reading home work with both free and not free options:)
Free
Practical hints on composition in painting By John Burnet
Portrait and figure painting By Frank Fowler – Section on composition.
The art of landscape painting in oil colour By Sir Alfred East – Section on composition.
Not Free
Mastering Composition: Techniques and Principles to Dramatically Improve Your Painting
Besides the reading home work above I would also strongly suggest to look at large numbers of great paintings from the past. You can find a huge collection at the Art Renewal Center.