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Textbook: Elements of pen-and-ink rendering Assignment: §1 pp. 2-6, Values (PDF pp. 20-24)

Value was touched on in the introduction. This chapter give more detail and some exercises to do. We start with two simple drawings that show values being used in different ways.

Fig. 1 give us detail, but no idea of coloring. The girl’s scarf is simply an outline. In fig. 2 we can use the difference of value to see that her scarf and apron are different colors. The author points out that choosing a rendering style is a personal preference for the artist.

Also, the first drawing shows directionality of light which adds visual interest. Without the light it would be flat and boring. The second doesn’t show either direction or strength of light. The visual interest is added by the texture adding “color” to the drawing.

The author suggests that three values, plus black and white, are enough to render a scene in ink.

He then provides a sample scale.

To do this exercise I started with a 4x5 grid. I lightly penciled the grid with a ruler, then inked over it. I also set up my palette tray with water and a few drops of black ink. (The white water bottle is a re-purposed drink flavor squirt bottle.)

It seems like working lightest to darkest is the way to go.

Tools used: Platinum Preppy fine point fountain pen, pencil, kneaded eraser, Higgins Calligraphy Ink, brush.

Values are a basic building block for any pen drawing. Having a reference scale is handy, and provides a guide for future drawings. Going from a flat color to pen lines is odd transition. Our brain needs to be adjusted so that we don’t see the lines, only the overall value. This is easier with more practice.

I’ve never compared my line work to a ink wash value scale before. It let me see hatching values in a new way. I’m glad I didn’t skip over doing this exercise even if meant I had to go out and buy a brush. I also learned that ink washes are fun. I might explore that more in the future.