Class Nine

Notan Study: Shaving Cream in 2 Values

In this lesson, we are going to study a pile of “Shaving Cream” in pencil and then create a 2 value Notan of it. This study will be used as part of Project 2. It is important to create a drawing that is the exact size we will be using so that that the transfer process will be simplified. Consider the interlocking black and white design that will present the cream in an interesting way. If the design is too confusing, your audience will not know what the cream is. So be clear and concise rather than odd and unusual.

In this exercise, we will create a study of the shaving cream that we will use for our Project 2- Notan Shaving Cream Ad. This study needs to be the correct and exact size that we will use in Project 2. Which means, do not make it too small. The ad is meant to fit in the Multi-media pad 11 x 14 sheet. There will also be a drawing of the shaving cream can, Barbisol, in the composition. So consider all the elements- Cream, Can, cast shadows on the table; background shapes or patterns. All these elements need to be composed on the 11 x 14 sheet of paper.

Shaving Cream in 2 Values

Materials:
  • 2 cans Barbisol Shaving Cream, it can have either the red or green stripes.
  • 11 x 14 pad from Drawing I
  • 2B or HB pencil
  • Gum eraser
  • Microns
  • Black Marker, wide, sharpie (or what you have available)
Instructions:
  • Take the shaving cream and create a pile like whipped cream and draw it lightly in pencil.
  • Map out the form shadow and the cast shadow patterns.
  • Create a Notan in 2 values, black and white.
  • It is important that the black pattern interlock in such a way that we understand what this form is. If the pattern is not clearly understood, the cream will not look like cream but something else. Spend time making a believable pattern of black and white.
  • Include the background shape of black or white.
  • Make sure it is the correct size and will fit on your Multi-media pad and form a good composition.
  • This study you will use for Project 2.

Upload to the assignment section.

Due: M/W Monday, Feb. 22 before 11:59 AM.

T/TH Tuesday, Feb. 23 before 11:59 AM.

This is the study of the cream in charcoal. I have indicated the general shape of the cream simply. Then, I indicated the shadow pattern on the cream and also the cast shadow.
Begin to fill in the shape of the shadows only. Use proper marker technique by applying the marker in parallel diagonal lines. It is OK if there is a little white showing between these lines. It will make it feel like a print or a cartoon illustration. But you may wish to eliminate this effect- it is up to you.
Completed study of the shaving cream. Look at the edge of the shadows- the edge travels back and forth along the form to add interest. The narrow shadows constantly change their shape and width. Do not outline the light side. A Notan consists of an interlocking pattern of black and white- no outline.
In this 2 value Notan, this Japanese artist creates a beautiful inter-locking pattern between the black and white shapes.