Contrast

Contrast describes the relationship between light and dark values. To understand contrast, make a value scale. Draw ten squares, making the first one white and the last one black. Then create a range of eight grays between them, progressing from light to dark. It is the distance between values on such a scale by which we measure degrees of contrast. The farther apart two values are on the scale, the stronger the contrast between them. Black is farthest from white; thus, when juxtaposed, these two extremes create the greatest possible value contrast. Less contrast exists between a light gray and a dark gray, and still less between a dark gray and black, which are very close to each other on the scale. Contrasting values placed side by side will accentuate each other; lights will appear lighter and darks will appear darker.

As you will discover, a skillful use of contrast can help you establish the illusion of distance and define the quality of light in your drawings.