Chapter 10 Metal

Objectives Understand the distinctive characteristics of light on highly reflective surfaces such as polished metal. Accurately render the reflections in highly reflective surfaces with the correct range of values. Draw flares in the highlights of metal surfaces.

Light on Metal Surfaces Polished metal reflects most of the light that hits it. Distinct reflections with hard edges are characteristic of polished metal surfaces.

Understanding Reflections Find the picture in the picture. Curved surfaces distort the reflection.

Drawing Metal Objects First establish the object’s form; ignore reflections. Then draw reflections as shapes in their own right.

Drawing Metal Objects Look for small details with hard edges within a large reflected area. Light from reflected objects is always darker than direct light, so there may be dark reflections in the light area. Nevertheless, keep the overall value of the light areas and shadow areas distinct.

Flares “Starburst” effect in the highlight. Draw as part of detail work near the end. Use kneaded eraser to make “arms” in the highlight. Don’t overwork!

Summary Reflections with distinct, hard edges are characteristic of highly reflective surfaces. Even on a metal surface, reflected light is still always darker in value than direct light. Drawing reflections is like drawing a “picture in the picture.” Don’t let the reflections distract you from rendering the underlying structure and volume of the object. Flares are created quickly and simply using a kneaded eraser.