44 fundamentals of drawing
Tonal relationships Tonal relationships are the difference between the dark and light values on the figure and the contrasts these light and dark patches create. It is advisable to establish tonal relationships while in the sketch. They influence the perception of proportions and rendering of movement. If the relationships are not set from the very start then it is hard to do it while modeling the form. With the
absence of tone, in the process of drawing, the visual perception of the details will be fragmentary. First of all apply shading and then indicate the difference “in light”. On the borderline of light and shade the tone can be denser, within the shade there is always a reflection. The lightest reflection is always darker than the darkest halftone.
dark
! Common mistake: Fragmentary observation hinders establishment of proper tonal relationships. Light is often the same everywhere and so are the shades. Sometimes light and shade are of the same tone.
light
To accomplish this stage quickly and successfully it is necessary to develop the “integral vision” and to make sketches every day solving four problems: composition, movement, proportions and tonal relationships.
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