Resources for Artists

One of the most important things artists need to learn is how to simplify and see the tonal values and structure

Start with separating your image into two tonal values, which is called a 'notan', just white and black.  White where the light hits, and black where it doesn't. Then add a midtone, and end up with 3, 4 or 5 tonal values. Keep the shapes large and closed!

As you can see, this photo is difficult to decipher. The structure is unclear, and everything is 'clumped' together. Will it work as a painting?

You can see how this is the same simplification as the grey scale above. The lights and darks have been exaggerated in order to clarify the structure of the flowers. I am not convinced this photo will yield a successful painting; however, one can learn a lot from taking on the most difficult of images!