In a previous post, I mentioned a hierarchy of effectiveness:
(Most effective)
1. Style
2. Subject matter/content (I might include shape language here)
3. Lighting scheme
4. Value/color composition
5. Surfaces/Textures
6. Color scheme
(Least effective)
See how easily a change of style makes "terrifying" become "spooky lite"? Style fundamentally changes the equation so that compensating for it with the other factors becomes difficult. |
In this way, each item in this list can set the context for the thing after it. If I used a gritty style, but then the subject was a happy puppy, then every choice I made with lighting, value composition, and even surfaces or color would be seen through the lens of that subject matter. The subject matter also dictates what range of surfaces can be used---I can't change the fur of a puppy to something else or it won't be a puppy anymore. And because it's a happy puppy, covering the fur with slime merely makes the puppy look a little naughty.
I use the word "can" because sometimes design decisions themselves are neutral or weak, like with lighting, which can be easily used in a way that doesn't modify the rest of the list. Sometimes keeping one element neutral so another element can show through more strongly is the way to go. Likewise, some subjects are just neutral by nature and we have to push on other factors to say something about them.
Shifting every element (including style) to communicate a clear message |
Mixed messages---appropriate for a more nuanced character |
YES! This is SUCH a useful topic, thanks so much for sharing!!
ReplyDeleteFirst of all, weren't you watching conference. Second of all, couldn't we do a lesson like this with a less - ummm - yucky-faced subject. Like, couldn't we use maybe a squid or something soft and wartless? Or a horse. I suggest a horse because anything you do that has a horse in it is automatically high art. A zombie horse, maybe? Or would the subject matter thus dictate the style, and thus throw out the priority list altogether, which would pretty much increase the complexity of the lesson.
ReplyDeleteLeast anyone feel inclined to censor me here, may I remind you that in writing tone is much like style, and that meaning is sometimes veiled in silliness.
Kaycie: You're welcome!
ReplyDeleteK: Yes, I was watching general conference while painting a zombie. I guess that may seem strange, but I've drawn Halloweeny stuff during October conference ever since I was a kid, so it doesn't seem as odd to me.
The original example I did because I was talking about triadic color schemes, and a yucky-faced zombie seemed like the polar opposite of what a triadic scheme is trying to do. So yeah, I could have used something else as an example, but it seemed easier to keep using the same example. Next tutorial post I'll do a horse if it will make you feel better. :)
Subject matter doesn't dictate style, but style changes what details and expression a subject can be described with. Yes, you can make a zombie horse cute if you want.
Great post! I have tried to have that conversation withn many an "art director" :P
ReplyDeleteI like your response to K ,especially the last paragraph.
I love these analytical posts. And I love that you search for the underlying, universal principles in art and design. In awe :)
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