Two and Three-Value "Universal" Patterns:

Here are more examples of helpful compositional patterns:

Patterns 1 thru 4 can be used for almost any painting subject. Notice they have the large, mid-value in common. You'll also note that 1 and 2 are two-value patterns, while 3 and 4 are three-value patterns.

Pattern 5 makes use of gradation (one of the Principles of Design) - in three values, light to medium to dark - and applied in either a diagonal, horizontal or vertical manner.

Pattern 6, is sometimes referred to as a "checker-board" or "California West Coast School" pattern. One alternates light, medium and dark values as well as warm and cool color temperatures. Among artists who are know for this kind of painting are George Post, Dong Kingman, Robert E. Wood, and Frank Webb.

The preceeding patterns mirror some of the teachings of Ed Whitney, a master teacher and educator. See your library for books by Ed Whitney, or by any of his accomplished students.

Of course it is possible to paint well without the conscious use of these patterns. However, they can be a valuable tool in helping to simplify, study, focus, strengthen, and succeed at our work.

Like any tool - including the Internet - they can be used or ... abused.

"Yesterday it worked.
Today it is not working.
Art is like that." - Unknown