Value/Contrast
Definition
Value refers to the range of tones from lightest to darkest in a work of art. Contrast is created by placing different values next to each other, enhancing visual interest and creating depth.
Analogy
Think of value as a grayscale image where white represents the lightest tone and black represents the darkest tone. Just like adding contrast in a photo editing app makes the lights brighter and darks darker, increasing contrast in art intensifies the difference between values for a more dramatic effect.
Related terms
Tonal Range: The span between the lightest and darkest values within an artwork.
Chiaroscuro: An artistic technique that uses strong contrasts between light and dark areas for dramatic effect.
Highlight/Shade: Highlights are areas with lighter values that represent direct illumination while shades are areas with darker values indicating shadows.
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