The term ‘chiaroscuro’ is a combination of ‘chiaro’ and ‘scuro’ – the Italian words for dark and light. It is a centuries-old technique that renders art much more dramatic and atmospheric, establishing a rich and evocative mood. The high contrast between the heavy shadows and intensely lit elements creates a sense of depth and three-dimensional volume. Renaissance artists Caravaggio, da Vinci and Rembrandt are some of the best-known artists who regularly applied it in their paintings. In this course, students will be guided through the process of creating this effect in their own chosen compositions. 

Materials: A set of wax-based colored pencils, either the Goldfaber set made by Faber-Castell or Prismacolor (watercolor pencils are not advised), hand-held pencil sharpener, pad of Canson Black Drawing paper (9in x 12in or larger), a pocket folder for storing weekly reference sheets.