3-Tone & 5-Tone Value Map: Module 1 Analogue Exercises

Earlier we introduced the use and application of value as a drawing tool to enhance our perception of objects in space. Using only 2-Tones to express light and shadow we began to abstract objects into a series of shapes that were either light or dark in value. Most of the drawings were accurate in size and shape, but abstracted due to the limited use of value. Now we will first explore the use of 3-Tone value maps [White, Gray, Black], then 5-Tone value maps [White, Light Gray, Medium Gray, Dark Gray, Black], which will allow you to be more critical in identifying value differentiation.

GUIDELINES FOR A VALUE MAP DRAWING

• Use a viewfinder to create a composition. Squint if you are having trouble distinguishing values.  [What is light, medium, and dark?]
• Draw your frame on the paper with the same proportions as your viewfinder.
• Determine the number of values you will use in your drawing.  [Start with 3 = the gray of your paper and the black and white of your media. For your next drawing try 5 = black, white and middle gray.]
• Look carefully at your subject and group the infinite range of tones into VALUE SHAPES. Using drawing as a process it is suggested you:
  1. Use your viewfinder.
  2. Use gesture lines to organize the outline of shapes in relationship to your frame on the page.
  3. Use contour line to enclose the shapes that you see before you choose a value.
  4. Draw each shape with a single value and a decisive edge. Then begin to identify where and when blending is necessary.

**Remember that using value maps is a method of simplifying a complex form into a set numbers of various shapes depending on the number of values used. Therefore, the less number of value used, the more abstract the composition. The shapes are less likely to bleed together if you use several values.

QUESTIONS FOR EVALUATING A VALUE MAP DRAWING

• Are the shapes a single value from edge to edge?
• Are there any blended or smudged areas?
• Is the number of values clear in the drawing? [Shows discipline in value control and critical analysis of value differences.]
• Is the composition strong?
• Is there a distinction made between value and local color?

ASSIGNMENT

This assignment should challenge you not only in the skill of value drawing, but in using drawing and composition as a narrative.  You will now create “scenes” and use objects, light, and space to tell a story.  Often the compositional layout, use of frame, and style of drawing set the tone of the story told.  Think about what is the most important area/subject/idea, and render it in a way that reinforces its importance to the viewer.

ASSIGNMENT

Using garments, furniture, directional lighting and an 11-step value map: create a narrative/composition in space.

This drawing should take 4 hours for you to complete at a minimum.  Drawings should be done at a large scale [18X24] on a medium tone BROWN Canson Paper. A mid-critique and progress check will be held on 01.29.07.

Assignment should not use graphite pencil. Conte crayons, pastels, and chalks are encouraged as the tools you should use.

11-step tonal study.