I always wondered what is more important: composition, colour, shape, perspective or tonal value to make a good work of art.

It was only recently that I realized that the one most important principle is tonal value. For me it is like a table with four legs, all of them are important, but the one that covers all is tonal value. Tonal value is the tabletop, supported by the four legs. By tonal value, I mean the different shades and tints of colours.

By applying a tonal value, you can make colours sing. Tonal value also helps to create depth and makes the flat surface of a painting look three dimensional. When planning the composition tonal value is used to create a point of interest, it makes the painting entertaining to look at. Without tonal value there will be no proper shape, it is used to depict light and shadow.

So, like a face without a smile, or a day without sunshine, tonal value is irreplaceable for a painting.

Do colours sing? To me colours, which colours to use, what colour combination will express the subject the best is an important decision to make when starting a new painting.

Will I use a warm palette, or should cold colours look better? Shall I use a limited palette or use all the colours on my palette? My choice will very much be influenced by the mood or emotion I want to express in my painting. If it is a landscape, the season will also determine the choice of colours. For a winter landscape, my palette will consist of charcoal, greys and blues, a bit of purple and a cold red, like Indian Red. I will also use yellow ochre instead of a lemon or chrome yellow. Summer and Spring will have an abundance of pinks, reds, greens and yellows.