Chef - Light & Shadow on a Face : Preview

In this tutorial we continue our exploration of simple tonal values but this time to tackle a very complex subject, possibly one of the most complex subjects: the human face. Don't be scared though, we can still use a simple process and a simple set of observations to tackle a subject like this.

A face can feel intimidating to paint. There are often a lot of subtle tonal variations and colours. We also have the placement of the features to contend with and in this case the proportions in relation to the rest of the body etc (don't forget there is a line drawing in the download pack. This can take out the drawing element and allow you to focus on getting to grips with the painting elements).

I am not going to pretend this isn't a tricky subject, but the point here is to take the simple tonal value process from previous tutorials and see how we can apply it to a more complex subject; actually, this approach can simplify our subject and how using tonal values in this way gives us a clear process to follow. Having a clear process to follow can make the whole painting experience much easier!

I use a tonal study and a few examples to explain the thoughts and theory around tonal values in relation to this subject. I hope you will find this useful. I also choose to keep the colour choices very limited, allowing the focus to remain on simple but accurate shapes and tones.

We will also touch on quite a few other bits and bobs. Such as; fuzzy wet into wet backgrounds and more abstract areas versus refined areas; using 3 separate stages from light to gentle shadow, to deep shadow in the face; laying in a colour and then blending and softening it into the surrounding areas with a damp brush; all this and plenty more too.

Keep and it fun and light-hearted and you will have a blast with this one, and hopefully learn plenty too.