Video 5: Value

Value is one of the seven elements of art. In terms of art, value is the darkness or
lightness of a color. Value is extremely important to drawing because it deals so
closely with light. We see objects because of light. The range and relationships of
values in a drawing inform the viewer about form and light. Value is what helps us
create an illusion of reality in a drawing. It can also communicate mood.

Value can be measured using a tool called a value scale (above). A value scale may
be sectioned off into five or more units. One unit on the end of the value scale will have
the lightest value (typically white). A progression of values (light to dark) exists within
the scale, reaching the darkest value on the opposite end. Since often our goal in
representational drawing is to create a full range of value, we can use a value scale to
help us achieve this. We can also use a value scale to help us identify values that exist
in our subject.

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 Values on the value scale have specific names. Lighter values are called tints. When
using a color medium, tints are created by adding white to a color.

Darker values on the value scale are referred to as shades. When using a color
medium, shades are created by adding black to a color.

Highlights are areas on an object where light is hitting directly. Highlights are typically
indicated in a drawing by using the tints of a color.

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 Shadows are areas on objects were light is not hitting. Shadows are usually indicated
in a drawing by the shades of a color.

In order to create the illusion of form through value, we must include a highlight, mid
tones, and core shadow on the object. A cast shadow should be added to further the
illusion. When comparing these locations of value with a value scale, it is clear that we
must use a full range of value to create the illusion of form fully.

The location and intensity of the light source will effect how and where we see the tints
and shades. In this case, the light source is a strong, singular light source from the
right.

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 In the example on the left,
two light sources originating
from the right side are used.
Notice how the change in
the light source effects the
location, intensity and
relationship of the tints and
shades. Also notice that
even though the light source
has changed a full range of
value still exists in the
image.

In the example below, two light sources from opposite sides of the object exist. One light
source is stronger than the other. This arrangement produces complexity in the values.
Although there is less contrast in the values, a full range still exists.

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 We’ll use the photo reference above to create a drawing using only values.

Begin with a light sketch of the shape of the egg. Next, begin adding
value in the darkest area. We’ll start with the cast shadow.

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 Adjust the pressure applied to the surface with the graphite to create
subtle changes of value in the cast shadow.

Pay special attention to what you see in the reference image. Subtle
changes in value are challenging to see and include in the drawing. But
developing these keen observation skills is actually improving your drawing
ability.

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 Next, we begin adding value to the areas of core shadow on the egg.
Here again, the goal is to focus only on smooth gradations from dark to
light.

Create contrast in value by darkening up areas around the outside of the

egg where highlights exist on the egg itself. You can make areas appear
lighter by making adjacent areas darker.

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 Continue to recognize relationships and contrast in value in the reference
and work areas on your drawing to match them.

You can establish the edges of the egg by creating contrast in value
instead of using contour lines.

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 Pay attention to the direction of the strokes that you create with the
graphite. These subtle lines can help further the illusion of form.

It’s always easier to make areas darker if necessary. So, build up areas of
value gradually to avoid having to fix mistakes later.

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 The values that exist in the negative space around the egg are just as
important as the values that exist on the egg.

Use a clean paper towel or sheet of paper to protect the drawing from
smearing as you add value to to the background.

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 Once the background values are established, you may find it necessary to
make some areas darker. This will help ensure a full range of value in the
drawing.

Finish the drawing by pushing areas of value further to increase contrast.

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