April 28th, 2013

I read an article recently in the Daniel Smith Catalog about value studies. I have learned to do them before beginning a painting, using them as a reference as I progress. It makes the painting process flow better, like following a map.  However, this article suggested taking a Black&White photo toward the end of the painting to re-evaluate the values. This is kind of similar to putting it upside down across the room and squinting, but was more clear to me  when I looked at it in B&W. I can see better now where I need to darken the shadows on her front to make her look more round.
This is one of those cases where I've been taught to do something, but didn't really GET IT until I saw it this way. This was a good tip that I wanted to pass on.
Have a great week! :)

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