Learn how to simplify complex compositions with Notan master thumbnails. In this level 1 demo, we'll focus on two- and three-value studies, using a portrait by Lepage to explore different interpretations. I'll cover key strategies like squinting, cutting out noise, and grouping values into major shapes.
Newest
Quinton Larrimore
8d
Could someone give me some feedback on these digital studies?
I think I did the boat / Sargent / Leffel studies a bit wrong (I kept the 3 values but I don't think I broke it down properly -- I was basically just observing and drawing what I saw.).
For the Rembrandt, I first sketched in the rough proportions, then tried to break down the shapes in the middle picture, and then I went back and tried to refine that. I think my proportions ended up being a bit off. How could I have executed this better? I think I'll give it another go and try to match the value of the shadows of the coat to the shadows on the head. Maybe I should also do that for the red part of the shirt and the things he is holding too?
Quinton Larrimore
8d
Went back and tried to clean it up a bit and simplify things down some more. The only change between these two images is I changed the cheek slightly on both to simplify it further.

@osa
1mo
Here are my attempts after the demo.

Theodor Urhed
2mo
The fourth interpretation made a lot of sense - stabilising the composition and grounding the character.

Jonah Sanders
2mo
I’ve completed a couple here. Had a ton of fun with these!
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2mo
Cool studies. The drawings look great and I dig the red pencil.
Lisanne
3mo
Five minutes in and I'm like, 'yes those details got me again'. Haha! Anybody else?

Dennis Yeary
4mo
Here a bunch of thumbnails that took 2 minutes each

Krisztina Eperjesi
4mo
Thank you for the demo. Small studies helped a lot to focus and warm up to the three-value study. I had to push myself out from my comfort zone to done this task. But I am glad, I finished a new study.
@sonaljain
4mo
Thanks Proko, Its very well explained!!!

Dennis Yeary
4mo
thank you I think this is going to help me
Johannes S.
4mo
Thank you, Stan.
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About instructor
Founder of Proko, artist and teacher of drawing, painting, and anatomy. I try to make my lessons fun and ultra packed with information.