Mastering Value & Depth: A Black & White Painting Study is a full-day workshop designed to help painters strengthen one of the most important fundamentals in art — value.
Color is often the first thing we rely on, but depth, realism, and visual impact all come from understanding light, shadow, and contrast. By working entirely in black and white, this class removes color from the equation so students can clearly see how value shapes form and creates depth.
While many value studies are taught using basic shapes like spheres and cylinders (and those methods are incredibly effective), this workshop offers a different approach. Instead of still-life forms, students will apply the same value principles to an organic, recognizable subject. This makes the study more engaging for those who prefer painting imagery rather than abstract exercises — without sacrificing the discipline of the study itself.
Throughout the day, we’ll focus on:
• Seeing and controlling light vs. shadow
• Creating depth without using color
• Understanding how value builds realism
• Using contrast to guide the viewer’s eye
• Strengthening fundamentals that apply to every painting style
This workshop takes place on Sunday, March 15th, from 10:00 a.m. to approximately 5:00 p.m., with a lunch break built in to allow layers to dry. All supplies are included. Please bring your own lunch; a microwave and fridge are available. Students are encouraged to wear clothing they don’t mind getting paint on.
Participants will leave with a completed black-and-white painting that stands on its own, along with a stronger understanding of value and depth that can be applied to all future artwork.
This class is ideal for painters who want to improve realism, strengthen fundamentals, or gain confidence in creating depth without relying on color.
Also check out other Arts events in Arvada, Fine Arts events in Arvada, Workshops in Arvada.
