Appraisily

November 13, 2023

Value in Art: Understanding Light, Dark, and Everything Between

Discover what value means in art, including its role in creating depth and contrast, while exploring both its subjective and market worth in the art world.

Monochromatic artwork demonstrating value scale from light to dark tones in artistic composition
By Appraisily Team Last updated November 13, 2023
<h2 class="section-header__title"> 
<span>What Does Value Mean in Art?</span>

</h2>

<div class="section-header__body">When discussing art, the term &ldquo;value&rdquo; carries two distinct meanings - one technical and one economic. Understanding both aspects is crucial for artists, collectors, and art enthusiasts alike.</div>

In its most fundamental sense, value in art refers to the relative lightness or darkness of a color or shade. As an essential element of art alongside line, shape, texture, space, form, and color, value creates depth, contrast, and mood in a composition. However, value can also refer to the worth of an artwork in cultural, historical, or monetary terms.

This comprehensive guide explores both aspects of value in art, providing examples and insights into how understanding value can enhance your appreciation of art and potentially inform investment decisions.

<h2 class="section-header__title"> 
<span>Value as an Element of Art</span>

</h2>

<div class="section-header__body">Value is one of the seven basic elements of art, and it plays a crucial role in creating visual impact, depth, and dimension in artworks.</div>

Value in art refers to the relative lightness or darkness of colors and tones within a composition. On a value scale, pure white represents the highest value, while pure black represents the lowest value, with countless shades of gray in between. Artists use these variations to create visual interest, emphasize certain elements, and convey depth and dimension.

Key Aspects of Value in Art

How Value Creates Depth

Value is perhaps the most important element for creating the illusion of three-dimensional form on a two-dimensional surface. When an artist creates gradual transitions from light to dark, they simulate how light interacts with objects in the real world, giving flat shapes the appearance of volume.

According to The Virtual Instructor, “We see objects and understand objects because of how dark they are against a lighter surface or how light they are against a darker surface.” This contrast is what allows us to perceive form, texture, and spatial relationships.

Value and Color Relationship

While value can exist independently of color (as in black and white or grayscale artwork), color and value are intimately connected. Every color has an inherent value - yellow is naturally lighter than purple, for example. Artists must understand these relationships to create effective compositions.

As noted by Draw Paint Academy, “A common mistake is to focus too much on the colors and not enough on the values.” Even the most vibrant colors will fail to create convincing form if their values are incorrect.

Color wheel with corresponding value scale
Color wheel showing how different hues have different inherent value levels

Value Contrast and Emphasis

Artists manipulate value contrast to direct the viewer’s attention to specific areas of a composition. High contrast (dramatic differences between light and dark) creates visual impact and focal points, while low contrast areas tend to recede.

The New York Times notes that value contrast “can help establish a mood, create the illusion of depth, or draw the viewer’s eye to a specific part of the composition.”

<h2 class="section-header__title"> 
<span>Value Techniques in Art</span>

</h2>

<div class="section-header__body">Artists employ various techniques to manipulate value in their work, each producing distinct visual effects and serving different artistic purposes.</div>

Chiaroscuro

Originating in the Renaissance, chiaroscuro is a dramatic technique that uses strong contrasts between light and dark to model three-dimensional forms. Masters like Caravaggio and Rembrandt are famous for their skillful use of chiaroscuro to create powerful, emotionally charged scenes with theatrical lighting effects.

Tenebrism

An intense form of chiaroscuro, tenebrism features dark, sometimes almost black backgrounds with dramatically illuminated figures or objects. This technique creates a spotlight effect that guides the viewer’s attention precisely where the artist intends.

Sfumato

Pioneered by Leonardo da Vinci, sfumato creates soft, gradual transitions between values without harsh lines or borders. The term comes from the Italian word for “smoke,” reflecting the hazy, atmospheric quality this technique produces.

Hatching and Cross-Hatching

Used primarily in drawing and printmaking, hatching involves creating tonal values through closely spaced parallel lines. Cross-hatching adds a second layer of lines at a different angle, creating darker values where the lines intersect.

Evolution of Value Techniques in Art History

  1. 15th Century

    Renaissance Chiaroscuro

    Artists like Leonardo da Vinci begin developing sophisticated techniques for modeling form with light and shadow.
  2. 16th-17th Century

    Baroque Tenebrism

    Caravaggio and followers push value contrast to dramatic extremes with theatrical lighting effects.
  3. 19th Century

    Impressionist Light

    Impressionists like Monet break traditional value rules, using higher key palettes to capture atmospheric light effects.
  4. 20th Century

    Abstract Value

    Modernists explore non-representational uses of value as an expressive element in its own right.

Value Scales and Studies

Artists often create value scales as exercises to improve their perception and control of value. A typical value scale might include 9-10 steps from pure white to pure black, helping artists train their eyes to distinguish subtle value differences.

According to Watercolor Affair, practicing with value scales is essential because “Your brain needs to be trained to ‘see’ values… The more you do it, the easier it gets!”

<h2 class="section-header__title"> 
<span>Analyzing Value in Masterworks</span>

</h2>

<div class="section-header__body">Examining how master artists have used value throughout art history provides valuable insights into this essential element&rsquo;s power and versatility.</div>

Rembrandt’s Light

Rembrandt van Rijn is renowned for his masterful control of value and light. In works like “The Night Watch” and his numerous self-portraits, he used carefully orchestrated value patterns to create focal points and psychological depth. His technique of illuminating only the most important elements while allowing secondary elements to recede into shadow directs the viewer’s emotional and intellectual engagement with the painting.

Turner’s Atmospherics

J.M.W. Turner used value to create atmospheric effects that verge on abstraction. His later seascapes and landscapes feature ethereal value transitions that evoke mood and environmental conditions rather than merely depicting objects. Turner’s work demonstrates how value can transcend representation to create pure emotional experience.

Escher’s Illusions

M.C. Escher manipulated value relationships to create his famous optical illusions and impossible constructions. His precise control of value enabled him to create convincing three-dimensional spaces that, upon closer inspection, cannot exist in reality.

Evaluating Value in Artwork

Use this checklist when analyzing the use of value in a painting or drawing

  • Does the artwork show a full range of values from light to dark?
  • Are there clear value patterns organizing the composition?
  • Does value effectively create the illusion of three-dimensional form?
  • Is value contrast used to create focal points?
  • Do value transitions effectively suggest texture and material qualities?
  • Does the overall value scheme contribute to the mood or emotional impact?
<h2 class="section-header__title"> 
<span>Art Market Value: The Economic Perspective</span>

</h2>

<div class="section-header__body">Beyond its technical meaning, &ldquo;value&rdquo; in art also refers to the economic worth of artwork - a complex calculus influenced by numerous factors.</div>

Art auction scene showing bidding on valuable artwork

The economic value of art is determined by a complex interplay of objective and subjective factors. According to Artplacer, understanding art market value requires consideration of both tangible and intangible elements.

Factors Affecting Art Market Value

Art valuation considers numerous variables, including:

  1. Artist Reputation and Career Stage - Works by established artists with significant exhibition histories typically command higher prices than emerging artists.

  2. Provenance and Authenticity - The documented history of ownership and verification of authenticity significantly impact value.

  3. Condition and Conservation - The physical condition of an artwork, including any restoration or conservation issues, directly affects its market value.

  4. Rarity and Scarcity - Limited availability of an artist’s work, particularly from specific periods or series, often increases value.

  5. Historical and Cultural Significance - Artworks that represent important moments in art history or cultural movements typically command premium prices.

  6. Size and Medium - Physical dimensions and materials used can impact value, with certain media traditionally valued higher than others.

  7. Market Trends and Collector Interest - Shifting tastes, fashion, and collector demand can cause fluctuations in an artist’s market value.

Value Factors in Art Market Valuation

How different elements impact the economic value of artwork

  </tbody>
</table>

Subjective Value of Art

Beyond market valuation, art carries subjective value that cannot be quantified:

  • Emotional Connection - Personal resonance with an artwork can make it priceless to an individual regardless of market value.

  • Intellectual Stimulation - Art that challenges, provokes thought, or offers new perspectives carries intellectual value.

  • Cultural Identity - Artworks representing cultural heritage or identity have immeasurable value to communities.

  • Aesthetic Pleasure - The simple enjoyment of beauty or visual interest is a fundamental but unquantifiable value.

According to Artplacer, “The subjective value of art comes from the ability to connect with it on a personal level, and this connection is what drives the passion of collectors around the world.”

<h2 class="section-header__title"> 
<span>Practical Applications: Value in Art Creation</span>

</h2>

<div class="section-header__body">Understanding value is essential for artists working in any medium, from traditional painting to digital design.</div>

Value Studies and Thumbnails

Before beginning a finished piece, many artists create value studies - small, simplified sketches focusing solely on the arrangement of light and dark. These studies allow artists to plan effective compositions without the distraction of color or detail.

As MasterClass explains, “Many artists will convert their reference photos to black and white or grayscale in order to more clearly see the values without the distraction of color.”

Squinting Technique

A common practice among artists is squinting at their subject or artwork to reduce visual information and see values more clearly. Squinting eliminates detail and color nuance, allowing artists to focus on basic value relationships.

Complementary Use of Color and Value

While color often receives more attention, successful artists understand that value does the “heavy lifting” in a composition. Even the most vibrant colors will appear flat and uninteresting without proper value structure.

Draw Paint Academy notes: “If the values are incorrect, then your colors will appear incorrect, regardless of how accurate your hue and saturation are.”

Limited Value Ranges

Artists often deliberately limit their value range to create specific effects:

  • High-key compositions use primarily light values, creating bright, airy feelings
  • Low-key compositions emphasize dark values, creating moody, dramatic atmospheres
  • Middle-key compositions cluster values in the middle range, often creating subtle, sophisticated effects

Common Questions About Value in Art

What is the definition of value in art? 
In art, value refers to the relative lightness or darkness of a color or tone. It is one of the seven elements of art, alongside line, shape, form, space, texture, and color. Value creates the illusion of light, volume, and dimension in a two-dimensional artwork. Value can range from the lightest light (white) to the darkest dark (black), with countless gradations of gray in between.

Additionally, "value" can also refer to the economic worth or price of an artwork in the art market, determined by factors like artist reputation, provenance, rarity, condition, and historical significance.

Why is value important in art? 
Value is crucial in art for several reasons:

    

  1. It creates the illusion of three-dimensional form and depth on a two-dimensional surface
    2. 

  2. It establishes mood and atmosphere in a composition
    3. 

  3. It directs the viewer’s attention through contrast and emphasis
    4. 

  4. It provides structure and organization to compositions
    5. 

  5. It can convey emotional qualities (light values often suggest optimism, while dark values may suggest mystery or drama)
    6. 



Without effective value relationships, even the most colorful artwork will appear flat and lifeless. Value does the essential work of creating convincing form and space.

What is a value scale in art? 
A value scale is a tool artists use to organize and visualize the gradual transition from white to black, usually divided into a series of steps. A typical value scale might include 9-10 distinct values from pure white to pure black, with various shades of gray in between.

Artists use value scales as reference tools when creating artwork, helping them accurately judge the relative lightness or darkness of different areas in their compositions. Value scales are also used in educational exercises to help artists train their eyes to perceive subtle value differences.

How do artists create value in different mediums? 
Artists create value in different ways depending on their medium:

    

  • Pencil/Graphite: Varying pressure and layering to create darker areas
    • 

  • Charcoal: Using different application techniques and erasers to create a full range of values
    • 

  • Ink: Using techniques like hatching, cross-hatching, and stippling to create value
    • 

  • Painting: Mixing white to lighten colors or adding black/complementary colors to darken them
    • 

  • Watercolor: Controlling water-to-pigment ratio to achieve different values
    • 

  • Digital Art: Adjusting opacity, brightness, and contrast settings
    • 



Regardless of medium, successful artists understand that controlling value is essential for creating compelling artwork.

What is the difference between value and color in art? 
Value and color are distinct elements of art, though they're closely related:

    

  • Value refers solely to lightness or darkness, ranging from white to black
    • 

  • Color refers to the hue (red, blue, yellow, etc.) and saturation
    • 



Every color has an inherent value - for example, yellow is naturally lighter than purple. Artists can alter a color’s value by adding white (tinting), black (shading), or gray (toning).


A common demonstration of the difference is to convert a color image to grayscale - all color information disappears, leaving only value relationships. If the composition remains strong in grayscale, it usually indicates effective value structure.

How is art valued in the market? 
Art market valuation involves numerous factors:

    

  1. Artist Recognition: Established artists command higher prices than emerging artists
    2. 

  2. Provenance: History of ownership affects value, especially if previous owners were notable
    3. 

  3. Authenticity: Verification and documentation increase value
    4. 

  4. Condition: Better preserved works are typically more valuable
    5. 

  5. Rarity: Scarcity of an artist’s work or pieces from a specific period increases value
    6. 

  6. Historical Significance: Works that marked important moments in art history often command premiums
    7. 

  7. Size and Medium: Physical dimensions and materials used affect pricing
    8. 

  8. Market Trends: Current collector interests and fashion influence prices
    9. 

  9. Exhibition History: Works that have been displayed in prestigious museums often gain value
    10. 

  10. Subject Matter: Certain themes or subjects may be more desirable within an artist’s body of work
    11. 



Art valuation is ultimately subjective and can fluctuate based on changing tastes and market conditions.

<h2 class="section-header__title"> 
<span>Developing Your Eye for Value</span>

</h2>

<div class="section-header__body">Training yourself to see and understand value relationships is a fundamental skill for both artists and art appreciators.</div>

Value Perception Exercises

  1. Grayscale Conversion: Study color artworks converted to grayscale to see how value relationships work independently of color.

  2. Squinting Practice: Look at artwork or scenes while squinting to reduce detail and see basic value patterns.

  3. Value Matching: Practice identifying where specific values fall on a value scale to train your perception of subtle differences.

  4. Notan Studies: Create simplified black and white compositions that focus solely on the pattern of dark and light.

Learning from Masters

Studying how master artists have used value throughout history provides invaluable lessons. Artists like Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Caravaggio are particularly renowned for their value mastery.

According to the Cascadia Art Museum, “By studying how other artists use value, you can learn to create more dynamic and visually interesting artwork.”

Digital Tools for Value Analysis

Modern artists and students have access to digital tools that can help analyze value:

  • Grayscale conversion in photo editing software
  • Threshold adjustment to reduce images to pure black and white
  • Value finder tools that identify the exact value of any pixel
  • Digital value scales for reference

These tools can supplement traditional training methods and provide objective feedback on value relationships.

Value in Art: Further Learning Resources

<h2 class="section-header__title"> 
<span>Conclusion: The Dual Nature of Value in Art</span>

</h2>

<div class="section-header__body">Value in art exists as both a technical element and an economic concept, and understanding both aspects enhances appreciation and engagement with the art world.</div>

Whether you’re an artist seeking to master the principles of light and shadow, a collector trying to understand the art market, or simply an art enthusiast wanting to deepen your appreciation, understanding value is essential.

As a technical element, value creates the foundation for compelling visual experiences by establishing form, depth, and emphasis. As an economic concept, value reflects the complex interplay of historical significance, artistic accomplishment, cultural relevance, and market dynamics.

These two meanings of value - the visual and the economic - sometimes intersect in interesting ways. Artworks that demonstrate masterful handling of value as a visual element often command higher prices in the market. Yet some of the most valuable artworks challenge conventional approaches to value, demonstrating that artistic innovation itself carries value.

By developing your understanding of both aspects of value, you can engage more deeply with art - whether creating it, collecting it, or simply appreciating it.

Category Price Notes
Artist Recognition High Impact Established artists with museum presence command premium prices
Provenance High Impact Previous notable owners can significantly increase value
Condition High Impact Pristine condition essential for maximum valuation
Historical Significance Medium-High Impact Works that defined movements or periods gain value
Rarity Medium-High Impact Scarcity within an artist's oeuvre increases demand
Size/Scale Medium Impact Larger works often (but not always) command higher prices
Medium/Materials Medium Impact Traditional media like oil on canvas often valued higher
Subject Matter Variable Impact Depends on collector preferences and artist's signature themes