Welcome! Today I have an unusual post--one that doesn't feature a card. I've been asked the same question in so many classes that I thought I would start sharing an occasional post featuring resources that I've found helpful.
What do you think the number one question is from students in my Copic classes who are just beginning to think in terms of basic art concepts (as opposed to merely sitting down to color with no forethought)? I would say that the big question is often, "Where do I put the shadows?"
And I've lost count of the number of times that I've responded, "Well, where is your light? Light always determines shadow. The two are inseparable--they go hand-in-hand!" It's definitely a mental connection that needs to be made if you are going to grow artistically, and if you are working in a more realistic (vs. abstract) style.
One very helpful book on this subject is Marianne Walker's Shadows and Shading book. I have recommended this book to so many people in classes over the past few years. In fact, for a while it was out of print, and I told people to look for it used--it was that helpful!
What I like most about it is that it isn't just a book of pretty images, but it's a book that teaches you to THINK like an artist--to ask yourself the questions that will lead to a successful piece. It is sorely needed, and I am sure that everyone who colors can learn something from it. Shadows and Shading is not a book on how to draw, nor is it Copic-specific; rather, it is filled with principles that can be used by people who use Copic markers, or people who can't imagine coloring with anything other than their colored pencils, or people who wouldn't dream of using a medium other than watercolors. Seriously, it's applicable to almost any medium--just good information! It helps you to understand the relationship of light and shadow. It's a book that you may want to read slowly rather than "conquering" in an afternoon. I hope that this will help some of you who have asked for more information on shadows and shading.
Next week (after the MFT countdown and release), I'm planning to share some of my favorite books on learning to sketch. Thank you for stopping by. I'll have my first countdown card up late tonight!
