Emphasis

 Emphasis in art can be achieved in various ways, and in some of the ways are harder to see than others.  Most often there is a focal point in a painting or picture.  And other times there isn't one, and the piece is meant to be seen as a whole.... like a collage of sorts.

In a way this photo shows emphasis by isolation because there is only one viola facing the viewer.  Even though the focal point is pretty much in the middle the yellow flower leads your eye into the photo and the others lead you out.  It could also be said that emphasis is achieved through contrast, as all the rest of the flowers are facing to the right.

1977 Fiat 124 Spider headlight.  Emphasis- one element.  With emphasis on one element, there is a overall dominant visual focal point.  In this picture it is the headlight.  It doesn't seem out of place because it goes along with the theme of the picture....it remains related to and part of the overall design.

Sunset, Hartford VT.  Emphasizing the whole over the parts.  One main or multiple focal points are not necessary for a successful design.  The focal can be the piece as a whole!  The shapes, and colors all contribute to the overall piece.