In oil painting, value refers to the lightness or darkness of a color.
Understanding Value in Painting
Value is a fundamental element in art, describing the tonal variations within a painting. It's not about the specific hue (like red or blue) but how light or dark that hue appears.
According to "Approaching Shadows" by Lori McNee, value is "how light or darkness of a color".
Value vs. Color
Think of value as the brightness scale for any given color. A bright yellow has a light value, while a deep navy blue has a dark value. Every color, no matter its hue or saturation, has a specific value.
The Black and White Test
A helpful way to understand value is through a black and white perspective. As noted in the reference:
- If you took a black and white photograph of your painting, the shades of grey would be the different values or tones within the painting.
This means that even if your painting is full of vibrant colors, its underlying structure, composition, and sense of form and depth are largely determined by the arrangement of its values (how light or dark each area is).
Why Value is Important
- Creates Form and Volume: Contrasting values (light next to dark) create the illusion of three-dimensional forms on a two-dimensional surface.
- Establishes Mood and Atmosphere: High-contrast paintings often feel dramatic, while paintings with closely related values can feel soft or atmospheric.
- Guides the Viewer's Eye: Areas of high value contrast tend to attract attention.
- Builds Composition: A strong value structure is essential for a successful painting composition.
Ultimately, value is the lightness or darkness a color or hue, playing a critical role in how an oil painting is perceived, from its form and depth to its overall mood.
