Being Bold With the Darks

This was a demo for my workshop to illustrate the importance of darks.  The contrasts between darks and lights will automatically draw your eye.  But, there is a tendency to be timid when painting the darks.  I suppose it is the fear of going too dark and not being able to retract your decision.

That is why the value sketch is so important.  If you know that you are going to place a dark value shape in a certain area, you can apply the dark with more confidence. 

Also knowing where the darks will be placed allows you to paint through that area with a midtone before placing the dark on top of the first wash.

Darks are powerful as shapes or accents.   Use them smartly to accentuate the areas you want your viewers to be drawn to.