We have used contour on it’s own to define objects and create a composition. Today we will insert a small amount of value into our drawing to add a focal point to our drawing.

By using both detailed shading and contour lines with attention to line weight you can build a full composition, but also focus the viewer’s attention on the area you find most interesting or important.This drawing focuses our attention on the portrait face by using value, but still gives background information with detailed contour observations.

This image focuses our eye on the arm and the shadow it casts.

Obviously our attention in this drawing is focused on the draped robes of the figure rather than on the

figure as a portrait.

Notice the contour detail that is still present in the portions of the drawing that have no value.

Once again our gaze is focused on the face of the figure, but again this drawing

provides interesting information drawn with contour and attention to line weight.

The two figure have been shaded in this drawing, but all the contour information in the background

adds depth and provides information about their

surroundings.

Here are four variations on the same contour drawing. Three of them are using value in a small area to draw focus to the details in that area.

In class today you will use pencil to draw one of the still life options I have provided for you. Use contour line to add all of the details in your drawing and create a composition that uses the entire page. Once the contour drawing is finished, you will select one small area to add value and emphasis. In the area where you add value, be sure that the edges of things no longer rely on contour, but use value to show shifts in edges.