Intense Color vs. Neutrals

Directing the viewer's eye to the focal point doesn't happen by accident.  Planning is crucial.  You can use directional lines, values, textures and color intensity.  In this painting I've used all of these.  But the most important is color intensity. 

The red hull of the old trawler is surrounded by neutrals.  Red is a bold and attention-getting color. By surrounding it with grays, the red is highlighted and intensified.  The red is also repeated in the flag. The darker values in the background come in aid of the focal point by popping the whites.

Plan, plan, plan.  Consider the elements and principles before subject matter accuracy.