A value drawing of a still life, comprised of five objects with local value changes. One of these objects must have a reflective surface (metal). An additional challenge would be to include an object that is transparent (glass or clear plastic).
Directions:
Select five objects which are different from one another in tonal value. At least two of these objects must have local value changes within the objects themselves (ex. A design on the package which breaks up the image into different colors). Arrange the objects on the surface of a table into some aesthetically pleasing and natural-looking composition. Your view should be looking down and across at the set-up (a ¾ angle). From your view, some of these objects should be overlapping others. Place a single light-source on the set-up.
*(A good selection would be a dinner setting, with different colored plates, cups, bowls, soda cans, napkins, etc.).
Medium:
Graphite (Use 2B, 4B, and 6B pencils)
Objectives:
- Improve accuracy in capturing contour, proportion, and scale from an observed set-up.
- Indicate how local value affects the value changes of different forms
- Create a well-designed composition from an observed arrangement of forms
Self-critique:
As you draw, ask yourself if you are doing the following (You should be!):
- Fill the page.
- Consider the entire page as a composition.
- Consider the relationships of objects re: size and placement.
- Consider the observed relationships between the positive and negative shapes, particularly the spaces between objects.
- Get the lines and shapes right. Your objects should stand straight and tall, not lopsided. If you have round shapes, get the ellipses right.
- Use a full range of tonal value and good contrast. Reserve white for the highlights.
- Use blacks for the very darkest tones.
Grading Criteria:
- Realism of contour, proportion, and scale
- Realism of form and structure
- Realism in rendering of local value changes
- Realism in spatial relationships between objects
- Strength of composition