A value study. Reflective surfaces like silver are particularly challenging subjects for value studies. Getting the catch lights to look convincing requires some careful handling of value.
This drawing also represents an experiment with composition. By the time I did this drawing as part of my series of 100 still life value studies, I was gaining confidence with value and was starting to try things out with other aspects of the drawing.
This is the real value of practising in a focused way. When you begin to internalise some of the skills you need – like value, say – you have brain power free to become more creative with other aspects.
In this way, repeated practice creates the conditions in which creativity can flourish, rather than killing it, as some artists will contend (largely those who don’t have the patience to practice, I find!)
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