Values are the most important part of a painting right after drawing. You can have the perfect color palette, but if your values are off, the image will feel flat, confusing, or just plain wrong. On the flip side, a strong value structure can make a painting work even without any color at all.

This lesson breaks down how to use the value scale not just for realism, but for artistic design. We’ll look at how masters like Sargent and Craig Mullins organize their lights and darks to guide the viewer's eye and create mood. Whether you want to paint high key scenes or dramatic low key compositions, learning to design your values is the fastest way to improve your work.