Elements of art refer to the visual components that make up a work of art. They include line, shape, form, space, texture, value and color. Understanding the elements of art allows us to analyze how artists use them to create certain effects in their work. In this article, we will focus specifically on examining the value of value in elements of art.
Value refers to the lightness or darkness of a color. It is a key element in creating the illusion of form and space in 2D artworks. Value allows us to perceive depth and dimension on a flat surface. It helps define shapes and make some parts of a composition recede while others come forward. Mastering the use of value is essential for artists to render realistic and captivating works of art.
The Importance of Value
So why is value such an indispensable element in art? Here are some key reasons:
| Creates depth and form | By manipulating values from light to dark, artists can model 3D forms and create the illusion of depth on a 2D surface. Darker values recede into the distance while lighter values come forward. |
| Defines shapes | Changes in value distinguish the boundaries of a shape and separate it from the surrounding area. Value contrasts define the edges of forms. |
| Directs eye movement | The viewer’s eye instinctively moves from areas of high contrast toward areas of less contrast. Strategic use of value contrasts can guide the viewer’s gaze throughout a composition. |
| Establishes lighting | The distribution of lights and darks communicates lighting conditions of a scene such as time of day or weather. |
| Creates emphasis | Dramatic value contrasts draw attention to important parts of a composition. Dark accents against light backgrounds stand out strongly. |
As we can see, skilled use of value is necessary for artists to achieve convincing three-dimensionality, compelling compositions, and striking effects in their artwork. Value is not just about lighting, but also serves important structural and aesthetic roles.
Value Scales
In drawing and painting, values are measured on a scale from black to white. On a value scale with 10 increments, pure black is rated 1 and pure white is rated 10. The middle value of 5 represents middle gray. Artists refer to value scales to mix accurate values and render gradual value transitions. Some common types of value scales include:
| Grayscale | Rates values from black to white in increments, without color. Useful for analyzing compositions in terms of value only. |
| Monochromatic | Evaluates values within a single hue. For example, an ultramarine blue value scale. |
| Luminosity | Measures values based on their lightness/luminosity, from dark to light. |
Value scales are important tools for breaking down the lights and darks of complex subjects. They help artists visualize value relationships accurately before applying them to artwork. With practice reading value scales, artists gain control over the value structure in their paintings and drawings.
Value Techniques
There are various techniques artists utilize to create values in their work:
| Hatching | Multiple parallel or overlapping lines to build up value. Denser hatching results in darker values. |
| Crosshatching | Layers of overlapping hatching at various angles, creating deeper values and textures. |
| Blending | Smooth gradations of value created by gradually blending media from light to dark. |
| Chiaroscuro | Dramatic high-contrast approach with strong lights against dark shadows. Associated with a sense of drama. |
| Wash | Diluted ink or paint applied in broad transparent layers to build up value. |
Artists combine these methods wet and dry media to develop rich values in their artwork. They also take advantage of the inherent values of their media, for example using white paper for the lightest values in drawing. Mastering a range of techniques gives artists flexibility in rendering subtle value gradations.
Value in Drawing vs. Painting
The approaches to value differ somewhat between drawing and painting:
| Drawing |
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| Painting |
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As we can see, both rely on value but use somewhat different methods tailored to their media. Value alone carries the weight of describing form in drawing, while color shares this role in painting. But the same principle of manipulating values from light to dark to create illusions of form and space applies to both.
Value in Art History
The intelligent use of value has been a key focus in art throughout history. Here are some examples:
| Renaissance |
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| Baroque |
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| Impressionism |
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| Old Masters |
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From Renaissance chiaroscuro to Impressionist light effects, artists through the centuries have exploited the power of value to create evocative, dramatic, and visually compelling artworks. Value remains a core focus of representational art today.
Value in Contemporary Art
Many contemporary artists continue to use value as an impactful element by:
- Creating abstract compositions focused purely on variations in value, without reference to subject matter
- Using strong contrasting values in minimalist works to heighten visual vibrancy
- Employing sharp value delineations between shapes in graphic styles
- Flattening forms and reducing value contrasts for a more stylized look
- Conveying emotion through dramatic chiaroscuro effects
Rather than aiming for realism, artists may distort or simplify value relationships to suit conceptual and expressive aims. But value remains a key consideration in how forms and spaces are delineated in contemporary artistic styles.
Evaluating Value in Artworks
When examining an artwork, some key questions to consider regarding the artist’s use of value include:
- Is there good value contrast overall? Do lights and darks provide enough visual variety?
- How does the value distribution direct the viewer’s eye around the composition?
- Do the values accurately describe the forms, creating an illusion of depth and solidity?
- Are there lost edges and value mergers where forms turn away from the light?
- How do the values enhance the artistic concept or intended mood of the work?
Observing the value structure helps analyze how successfully an artist employs this element towards their visual goals. It reveals technical skill as well as intentionality in the work’s aesthetic impact.
Practicing with Value
Mastering value is key for artists seeking to convincingly portray light, form and space. Here are some recommended value exercises:
- Create monochromatic value scales to improve value sensitivity
- Do value studies from life, photos or master paintings to analyze value structure
- Use hatching and crosshatching to render form in practice drawings
- Paint value swatches matching colors to a grayscale scale
- Simplify complex subjects down to basic patterns of light and shadow
- Produce copies of master drawings using only black and white
Dedicated value practice trains the eye to perceive subtle value relationships and gives artists control in using value expressively. It forms an essential foundation for impactful drawing and painting.
Conclusion
In summary, value is a vital element of art for describing form, creating visual interest and directing the viewer’s eye. Artists utilize value contrasts to construct convincing illusions of three-dimensionality in static two-dimensional works. A keen understanding of value allows artists to make compelling compositional and stylistic choices. Mastering the intricacies of value through ongoing practice develops essential skills for visual artistry and unlocks new potential for creative expression. Evaluating use of value provides insight into an artwork’s visual effectiveness and artistic merit. For all its simplicity as a visual phenomenon, value remains an indispensable asset in every artist’s toolkit.
