Exploring Values with Monochrome Painting: Work in progress

Charlotte Wensley
Apr 8, 2021
3 min read

Updated: 1 day ago

Black and white photograph of paintbrushes and pencils — Exploring values in monochrome

Sometimes it's good to put away the colour for a day and work in monochrome. I find it's a great way to focus on mark making, explore values and just play and sketch without thinking about the outcome.

All kinds of good things can happen with monochrome painting when you put the colours away and hold on for the ride!

| Exploring a Single Hue

By embracing a monochrome palette, we can delve into the depths of a single hue, exploring its various shades, tints, and tones. This approach allows for a unique focus on texture, form, and composition without the distraction of multiple colors competing for attention. The simplicity of monochrome painting encourages a deeper emotional connection to the artwork, as we can engage with the subtleties of light and shadow created by the variations within that one color.

Working in a monochromatic scheme can challenge us to think critically about our creative process. It pushes us to explore the relationship between light and dark, as well as the impact of contrast and balance within our compositions, which is always a useful exercise to practice!

| Monochrome Painting can Encourage Innovation

The limitations imposed by a single color can spark innovative techniques and methods, leading to unexpected artistic breakthroughs. The journey of creating a monochrome painting can be a liberating experience, freeing us from the overwhelming choices that come with a full color palette. It invites experimentation and exploration, as we navigate the nuances of our chosen color, discovering new depths and meaning in our work.

Ultimately, setting aside a multitude of colors in favor of a singular focus can lead to a rewarding artistic adventure, revealing the beauty and complexity that can emerge from simplicity.

| Evoking Emotion with a Single Hue

Monochrome painting often conveys a sense of unity and harmony, as the absence of contrasting colors can create a serene and cohesive visual experience. This can evoke a range of emotions, from calmness to introspection, allowing the viewer to engage with the piece on a more profound level.

So, when you put the colors away and hold on for the ride, you may find yourself on a path of discovery that transforms not only your artwork but also your understanding of color and its emotional resonance. I highly recommend it as a creative experiment!