In art and design, the focal point is the area within a composition that first attracts and holds the viewer's attention. It is the area of greatest interest, the spot the artist deliberately makes most prominent through techniques such as contrast, colour intensity, placement, size, or detail.
The background area supports the composition but is not the centre of attention. The edge of the frame defines the boundary of the artwork, not a point of visual interest. A secondary object plays a supporting role in the design and, by definition, is subordinate to the focal point rather than being the focal point itself.
Exam tip: the focal point is sometimes called the centre of interest. It does not have to be at the physical centre of the artwork; its position depends on where the artist directs the viewer's eye.
