This is from an art lesson yesterday in class.

Want to express folds in drapery or in skin? You must understand how forms behave in the light.

Here is a fold depicted in light, side view and top view.  There is a hard cast shadow on the left side.  And there is a soft shadow edge turning gradually into the light to the right.  Notice also the placement of the highlight.

Some of these simple visual ideas we use to depict form are intuitive but amazingly, they can and should be learned if you want to effectively express form in the light.  Once understood, they will change the way you paint.

It will all be in my upcoming how to book, a long time in the making.

If you like/don’t like or want to add your thoughts to the conversation, I encourage you to comment.  Also, you may want to get a copy of Point of Art – Second Edition, or download it today.   I offer career coaching for those serious about a career in art. Don’t forget to check out  The Portrait – a painting video  and The Power of Positive Painting