Hands up if you use value sketches

We probably all know that we should do a value sketch as part of the important planning period of a painting.  However, how many actually do one, or even better do a number of them to also improve the composition?

If you are wondering why values are important, I refer you to a previous blog that Neal authored:
http://arttutormembers.blogspot.ca/2014/07/why-values-are-important.html

Here are some tips for doing a value sketch and planning the number, shape, proportion, and placement of your lightest and darkest values:

• keep your value sketches small and simple
• draw a box around your value sketch in the proportions of the paper you are going to paint on
• limit the use of outlines - think in terms of areas as opposed to lines
• don't record a lot of information and detail
• use no more than three to four values (lights, mid-tones and darks)
• apply the tone with small rapid circular or sideways movement of the hand if using a pencil
• try reversing values to create new design possibilities
• draw shapes of your objects to simplify the composition

Some people prefer the use of pencil over watercolour for their value sketch. What's your favorite? Mine is watercolour as it helps me determine the painting sequence of objects in addition to the values.

Today's artist find is Liu Yi

His Facebook page is: https://www.facebook.com/ArtofLiuYi/?fref=ts

Have a great week,

Danielle