Add Local Tones to Your Drawing
The lights and darks in this drawing have more to do with local tones than with modeling with light and shadow: a dark hat, a white glove, a medium coat and a darker skirt.
Local tone refers to the basic value or color of an element, independent of value variations used to model the subject with light and shadow. Every subject has a local tone: a black coat, a white shirt, a gray tie, dark hair or medium-light skin.
Although the line work may stand on its own, the addition of a few, well-placed local tones can give snap and vitality to the drawing.
Be selective when adding local tones or you will overwhelm your focal point. Local tones may be flat and graphic, or they may have a loose texture. This is a stylistic choice that often depends upon the drawing medium, so don’t be afraid to use a different medium to get the effect you want.
Add Local Tones to Your Drawing
The lights and darks in this drawing have more to do with local tones than with modeling with light and shadow: a dark hat, a white glove, a medium coat and a darker skirt.
Part-Time Mime
Black and white charcoal on gray Canson paper
18" × 24" (46cm × 61cm)