Art Fundamentals: Values

Introduction

This tutorial focuses on the fundamental concept of values in art, as discussed by Clint Cearley in the Swatches video series. Understanding values is crucial for creating depth, contrast, and mood in your artwork. This guide will break down key concepts about values, including value scales, relative values, and value schemes, making it easier for you to apply these ideas in your art practice.

Step 1: Understanding Value Scale

• A value scale is a gradient that shows the transition from light to dark.

To create your own value scale

• Start with a white square (representing the lightest value).
• Gradually add darker shades until you reach black (the darkest value).
• Use a medium (like graphite or charcoal) to fill in each square, ensuring smooth transitions between values.

Step 2: Exploring Relative Values

• Relative values refer to how light or dark a color appears in comparison to other colors around it.

To practice

• Choose a color and place it next to a lighter and a darker color.
• Observe how the perception of that color changes based on its surroundings.
• This exercise is vital for understanding how to create contrast and depth in your compositions.

Step 3: Implementing Value Schemes

• Value schemes are methods of organizing values within your artwork to achieve a desired effect or mood.

Common value schemes include

• Light and Dark: Use a high contrast between light and dark values to create drama.
• Monochromatic: Use variations of a single color with different values for a harmonious look.
• Triadic: Use three values spaced evenly across the value scale for balanced compositions.
• Experiment with these schemes in your sketches to see how they influence the overall feel of your work.

Step 4: Understanding Fragmented Values

• Fragmented values involve breaking down objects into smaller sections with different values for a more complex appearance.

To practice

• Choose an object and sketch it with visible sections.
• Assign different values to each section to highlight shapes and forms.
• This technique adds interest and can help in depicting texture and light more effectively.

Conclusion

Understanding values is essential for creating visually appealing artwork. By mastering the value scale, exploring relative values, applying value schemes, and practicing with fragmented values, you can significantly enhance your artistic skills. As you continue your artistic journey, consider integrating these principles into your next projects, and don’t hesitate to revisit these concepts for deeper comprehension. Happy creating!