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SHADING AND RENDERING

What we interpret as lines in optical reality are actually the contrasts between and among surfaces and tonal differences, as illustrated to the right.

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The choice of how one shades or renders these surfaces is ultimately a matter of fitness to purpose, style, and creativity.

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The methods and styles for shading in surfaces can range from the lightest gestural suggestions to all the details and gradations of photorealistic rendering, and with everything in between.

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SKETCHING SURFACE TONES

Line Quality

It is possible to suggest tonal differences and three-dimensional form by manipulating the weight of line alone. By making some lines darker and others lighter, highlights and shadows can be implied.

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Line Shading and Hatching

Surfaces tones can be indicated by dots, lines, hatching patterns, or virtually any kind of disturbance that sets off one area against another. In sketching, sometimes a simple squiggled line will not only be adequate but also most effective.

SHADING WITH PARALLEL LINES

Using parallel lines is one way to get a surface. But notice the optical ...

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