Скачать или смотреть PAINTING BEAUTIFUL TONALIST LANDSCAPES, Class 5 part one. Low-Key vs. High-Key Paintings

Low-Key vs. High-Key Paintings
In order to create drama and a strong value structure for a painting, artists often choose to work in either a high or low "key" in which to compose their work. Thinking about a painting or drawing in this way helps to simplify value choices, emphasize areas of focus, and create a pleasing interaction of shapes when the painting is considered abstractly.
In a high-key painting, the majority of values are in lighter than middle gray. Then, dark accents are used to lead the eye around the important areas of the painting. High-key paintings feel light and airy.
In a low-key painting, the majority of values are darker than middle gray. Light values are saved as accents to highlight the important elements in the painting. Low-key paintings feel mysterious and contemplative.
-Spencer Hallam

Painting by Thomas Wilmer Dewing