Controlling Value 2
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Judging values is difficult. Our perceptions of values are heavily
influenced by surrounding values. Look at branches of trees, masts of
ships, telegraph poles against the bright sky. They will appear dark.
influenced by surrounding values. Look at branches of trees, masts of
ships, telegraph poles against the bright sky. They will appear dark.
Look at the base of the tree, (or hull of the ship, or whatever).
Depending on its surroundings, it may appear light - even white.
Depending on its surroundings, it may appear light - even white.
How does this affect our painting?
Usually, it means we have a tendency to paint things that are set
against a light background ( e.g tree branches and twigs) too
dark, and vice versa for objects set against dark backgrounds.
(See Danforth demonstration for example of how to counteract
this). If we fall into this trap, we end up with excessive contrast,
a dearth of middle tones, and a painting that I would describe as
'sticky' or 'stodgy'.
Usually, it means we have a tendency to paint things that are set
against a light background ( e.g tree branches and twigs) too
dark, and vice versa for objects set against dark backgrounds.
(See Danforth demonstration for example of how to counteract
this). If we fall into this trap, we end up with excessive contrast,
a dearth of middle tones, and a painting that I would describe as
'sticky' or 'stodgy'.