Using Layers to Draw the Eye into the Composition

Layers draw your eye around in 3D in addition to the normal 2D composition elements.

Layers can be actual layers of paint or paper or objects or techniques OR an illusion of layers. For example, shadowing on letters creates the illusion that they are objects sitting on top of the paper.

For October, create a piece using shadowing on the letters.

• Choose a direction for the light to be coming from and be consistent throughout.

• Pay attention to the shape and darkness of the shadow

• As you can see from the attached examples, there are several ways to shadow

• Use graphite or colored pencil or watercolor for the shadows

• The shadows can be a single line or a wider gradation

• The shadowing can form the letters in the negative space

• Use any color paper, including black.