Using Notan Sketches to Strengthen Composition

Thanks for checking out this demo of several notan sketches from photo references.
Notan is a Japanese design concept that uses darks and lights in harmony and balance. This organization of shapes is useful for simplifying an image, bringing it to its simplest forms to best understand how the values work together.
I love using at least one notan sketch to prep for a painting, and the result is almost always a stronger composition.
I have a cold this evening, so my post is very...spare. Probably lacking important details. I guess you could say it's as simple and minimalist as a notan sketch! 😉
Attribution:
Photo 1 cat & shoes - Marco.heifetz - Wikimedia Creative Commons
Photo 2 walking up stairs - Diana Kellam
Photo 3 chess board - Anne Livingston
Photo 4 shoes & shadows - unknown
Photo 5 Woman on beach - Anderson Mancini - Wikimedia Creative Commons
Photo 6 Converse - Free stock photo, public domain
Photo 7 Boat - VIDISHA MAHAPATRA - Wikimedia Creative Commons

[@lifeslices2228]

I had not know about Notan, before this. Very helpful video! Thank you for creating this and sharing!

[@annelivingstonart]

Thank you so much for watching!♥️

[@MarshMakesComics]

I’ve never heard of this technique I’ll have to try it! Thank You!

[@annelivingstonart]

Oh, awesome! Let me know what you think! 😀

[@cnamisnak]

Curious about what the material
you use? Is it just black paint and brush or a special medium. So fun to watch!

[@annelivingstonart]

This was India ink. I like to use that or Sumi ink if I am at home. I have a brush pen to use on the road but not as fun and dynamic as a real brush.