Use Chance to Start a Composition, Then Make a Deliberate Choice

Chance can give you a starting arrangement you would not have planned. The useful next step is deciding what to keep. This exercise produces two paper plans: an initial arrangement shaped by a simple random rule, and a second version containing one deliberate change.

MoMA's chance-collage lesson explores an arrangement influenced by chance. The tabletop method here is an original planning exercise; it does not ask you to copy an artwork or apply collage materials to a canvas.

Prepare broad shapes and a clear rule

Use a sheet with a rectangular planning area, three large loose paper shapes, three location cards and a pencil. Choose distinct shapes, such as a circle, a long rectangle and a broad curved form. Ready-cut shapes are fine. These preparation materials are separate from any canvas or optional paint kit.

Label the cards “upper area,” “middle area” and “lower area.” Mix them face down. Before drawing a card, decide that each shape will stay wholly inside the rectangle and that the maker may choose its exact position within the named area. This deliberately leaves some choices under your control.

Make and record the first arrangement

1. Choose the first shape, draw a location card and place it in that broad area.
2. Repeat with the remaining shapes and cards. Keep all materials on the tabletop.
3. Look at the arrangement without immediately correcting it. Notice overlaps, open areas and the shape that attracts your attention.
4. Make a quick sketch recording the positions before moving anything.

This is not a test of accepting whatever happens. If a result is unworkable, you can stop or start again. Record a new start as a different trial rather than quietly rewriting the first record.

Make one deliberate edit

Choose one move, rotation or removal. Keep the other relationships as close to the first plan as possible. Record the second version and explain the effect you wanted.

Compare both records. You may prefer the first arrangement, the edited one or neither. The output is a reasoned choice, not proof that random placement produces a better composition.

Choose a canvas direction

If you want to paint one arrangement, use its sketch as a reference and identify the shapes, placement and areas to leave open. Check the smallest regions with outline-readiness guidance. A photo, reference or ready outline can start a request, and a preview is optional.

The abstract-outline guide helps compare the resulting structure. For a repeating block arrangement, use patchwork-pattern planning. For a small prompt during an existing painting session, the painting-games guide may be enough.