The term value contrast can be misleading. The word contrast suggests a strong difference, but any degree of
difference can be a contrast. In painting, even values with a single interval between them will contrast with each other, though not to a great degree.
WHAT ARE VALUE INTERVALS?
In music, an interval is the space between two adjacent notes. In visual art, a value interval is the
visual distance between two values a degree up or down from each other. We see these visual intervals on a value scale.
DEGREES OF VALUE CONTRASTS
We can call close value intervals a minor contrast. If there are two or three intervals between them, they are
moderately contrasted, and if there are several intervals between them, they are major in contrast. The strongest value contrast possible is the lightest light next to the darkest dark.
Under a direct light source, we're most likely to find minor and moderate value contrasts either within areas of shadow or areas where light
rays are hitting. Neither within areas of light nor areas of shadow are we going to see major contrast unless there are incidentals. Major value contrasts are most likely to appear where areas in light juxtapose areas in shadow. (See examples below.)
Incidentals are either small lights isolated in a shadow field or small shadows isolated in a field of light. Examples are like
those labeled below.
Spend your weekend comparing degrees of value contrasts wherever you look. Notice what's causing the contrast and whether it is a minor, moderate, major or the strongest.
Pay real attention to variations in contrast within areas of shadow and areas being hit by light rays.
Enjoy a weekend filled with curiosity!
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