Is Drawing Shading More Significant Than Outlines

“Is Drawing Shading More Significant Than Outlines?”

By Michael Dale

When constructing an enclosed shape by drawing an outline of lines, arcs and curves... Are you creating a sense of reality? Does the shape look solid?

Or, in truth, is it just a simple 2D outline that doesn't have any form, depth or density?

When you think about it, there is no distinction between the paper surface inside and outside the outline drawn... it is all flat and white (or whatever color the paper is). It is only the surface texture of the paper that has any real character.

How then, do artists take a simple outline and give it a sense of 3D? It is done with tonal shading.

For instance, take a cube or rectangular block with flat sides. When you look at it you can only see 3 sides out of the 6. Most likely you are seeing the top face and 2 sides. The only real difference between them is that they have different tonal density, depending upon where the light source is.

As an artist you will distinguish the different faces with 3 different shades. One face might be almost white, one face dark and the other somewhere in between. By doing this you will be giving an impression of the solid item it is.

When you have finished shading you will notice another benefit... The outline you began with isn't as noticeable... it has lost its strength. The lines aren't as powerful because the contrast has been lost.

The block or cube now has an overall tonal quality nearer the strength of the outline than it does to the white of the paper. Apart from reducing the visual distraction of the outline, the contrast makes the block look as if it is standing above the paper surface. It looks solid and seems to be touchable.

Your outline drawing capabilities are important but it will be your shading skills that will transform them into substance... And, as your shading skills improve your art will gain substance and influence.

So, ask yourself this simple question… “Are you prepared to work at improving your just your outline drawing abilities... or are you going to try to perfect your shading skills as well?”

Michael Dale is the author of 1- Color Is Best (the quick and easy way to learn to paint watercolor) and 3- Colors Are All You Need (mix any color you want fast using only 3 colors). Contact http://www.Paint-And-Draw.com to find out more.

You can also find a FREE drawing and painting course edited by Michael Dale at http://www.DrawingFoundations.com

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