🎨 TRY IT NOW EXERCISE

“Seeing in Shapes & Values”

Goal: Train your eye to simplify and strengthen your compositions.

What You’ll Need:

• Watercolor paper
• Pencil or charcoal
• Watercolor paint or watercolor ink
• Kneaded eraser

Step-by-Step:

1. Choose a Simple Subject
   A mug, plant, or small still life with strong light and shadow.
2. Squint to Simplify
   Slightly squint your eyes to reduce detail — notice only light vs. dark shapes.
3. Block in 3–5 Values
   • Light
   • Mid-tone
   • Dark
     Keep it simple — avoid details.
4. Focus on Edges
   Ask yourself:
   • Where are edges sharp?
   • Where do they soften or disappear?
5. Optional Color Layer
   Add a light wash of color while preserving your value structure.

✍️ Reflection Prompt:

Did simplifying your subject change how you approached it? What details became more important — or less?