Hi Guys,
This week I have been exploring using Value patterns with my students. We have been going back to basics and discovering how Value patterns are perhaps one of the most important parts of preparing to paint. Our eyes are attracted and seek to see these patterns before colour. One can see at a glance with these Value patterns whether a composition is going to work or not.
So, when you are thinking of diving straight in to painting you may want to add a few extra steps that are going to help you see things more clearly. Making a few quick thumbnail sketches will save you so much time , will make you feel more confident in what you are painting and will give you a better outcome and finished painting.
I first discovered this process at Art college, but recently I was reminded of this through studying with Mary Gilkersohn. Taking time to make Thumbnail line drawing, Tonal and Notan sketches are just invaluable and well worth the few minutes they take to do. It helps simplify what you are looking at and making painting more accessible
I encourage my students to do this and once it has become part of their painting process , even the most tricky of subjects are achievable.
Do drop me a line if you want to discuss this further.
I hope you have enjoyed visiting my site and that its been helpful. I have updated the shop on my site with new work and an Autumn mobile workshop, do pop over and give it a look and let me know what you think.