The Drama of da Vinci

Rendering a simple subject in a dramatic fashion

Chiaroscuro – Italian term meaning “light-dark”. Chiaroscuro is a method for applying value to a two-dimensional piece of artwork in order to create the illusion of a three-dimensional solid form. Contrasts of light and dark areas are created by dramatic lighting from a single light source. This way of working was devised during the Italian Renaissance and was used by artists such as Leonardo da Vinci and Raphael.

Research artists who use chiaroscuro, concentrating on the Renaissance (particularly Leonardo da Vinci’s drapery studies). Take notes and make thumbnails in your sketchbook. 

Drape fabric over an object or person in an interesting way. Use a dramatic light source and create a drawing using chiaroscuro in charcoal or conte crayon.