Your practice plan
Describe the reference with three to five large light and dark groups. Start with the largest groups and leave small detail out.
Why make three boxes? Three small boxes let you compare arrangements before you commit to one larger study.
What you will do: Make three small versions of the reference. Change the position or size of the largest shapes in each one, then develop the clearest version into a larger study.
Match the shape of your boxes to the shape of your reference.
What is a thumbnail?
A thumbnail is a small, rough planning drawing. Use it to test an arrangement; leave out edits and detail.Set up your material
Terms explained
How to work through it
Helpful setup
Use black, white, and one brush. Mix three to five value piles before you paint. Use a stay-wet palette or remix small piles as they dry.
What does “value” mean?
Value is how light or dark something looks. Treat areas with similar lightness as one group.Finish check
Hold the study at arm’s length. Can you see the three to five large light and dark groups before the detail? If yes, you are done.
Use the three-box setup
What does “composition” mean?
Composition is where the biggest parts sit inside the study box. The blank area around them is empty space.Keep the first sketches rough; use the same big shapes in the larger study.
Finish check
Hold the study at arm’s length. Can you spot the biggest shape and the largest blank area before the detail? If yes, you are done.