Getting the light and dark values right can be tricky when we are painting in oils. In my beginning attempts I have found myself so wrapped up in the technique of getting the oil pigment down that I have completely ignored the true importance of the painting, getting the values correct first.
Here are step by step techniques that have helped me in trying to simplify the process.
First I'll do a rough gesture drawing on my canvas or board with a pastel pencil that can easily be wiped off with a clean rag. If it doesn't look the way you want, wipe it out till it feels right. This will save so much time and frustration in the painting phase; after all you have very little invested at this point. If you have a mushy drawing you'll have a mushy painting. Don't kid yourself; you'll never fix a bad drawing with paint. When the drawing is complete shade in your shadow areas. Look for your darkest values and state them in with darkest strokes. When you feel happy with your sketch, you are ready to paint.
I like to start on a white canvas. I'll establish the darkest values first, if I have made a complete tonal drawing I'll know just where to go with my darkest color, gust like a road map. Don't be afraid to cover too much. Even though some details may get painted over, you'll know where everything is suppose to be from your strong foundation work of the drawing.
Now you are ready for middle to dark tones that are found in the shadows. Lay in those shapes quickly and be conscious of the color transitions as well. Keep it simple and cover those shapes! If this is done right, your painting should look like a snow scene. Stay away from putting in the details at this time.
Now you are ready to put in the lighted areas. Observe the contrast in the light areas and the sky and compare the other objects in the light as well. Which is darker and which is lighter? Keep making comparisons through out the painting. I tend to make things a little darker with the idea that I can introduce lighter colors on top if I need. I find this to be much easier to do than trying to darken something after realizing I have made it too light.
Now you are ready for the details and highlights. In some cases you'll want to build them up slowly as they can often become overwhelming. Again keep comparing your values. Save your detailed works for the very few strokes that count.
Happy painting!
