Art Composition Fundamentals: Exploring Value Contrast, Shape, & Balance in Procreate or Pen & Ink

🎬 Watch the trailer below or on YouTube!
This class was selected as a Staff Pick on Skillshare, with over 2,100 students and 93% of reviews rating it “Exceeded Expectations.”

Have you ever felt intimidated by composition?
Or thought, “I know the basics, but something still feels off…”

Let’s change that.
In this class, we’ll unravel the mysteries of composition through the lens of contrast and value — deepening your understanding of what makes a powerful image, and helping you grow your drawing skills with a sprinkle of fun and lightness. ✨

It’s here — finally!
If you follow my adventures on Instagram, you know that I've been working on this class for many many months, but truth be told, I've been thinking about it for the past 3 years. (yes, that long). It's about a subject I'm passionate about: Composition.

Composition is such an essential tool for artists and illustrators, yet it’s too often reduced to rules like the Rule of Thirds or the Golden Ratio— which (don't get me wrong) are useful, but only scratch the surface.

In this class, we’ll explore one of the most powerful foundations of composition: value contrast, shape, and balance— all contained in the Japanese concept of Notan, the harmony of light and dark.

Here’s what you’ll do:
• Create two abstract black-and-white explorations
• Complete four master studies using the Notan technique (you can choose your own subject or follow along with mine — owls!)
• Craft four unique thumbnail drawings using everything you’ve learned

We’ll study works from master artists, explore how to train your eyes and hands, and work directly in your sketchbook or Procreate — because composition isn’t just theory; it’s something you feel and practice.

You’ll learn about:
• The curve-to-straight technique
• Ratios, proportions, and spacing
• Positive and negative space
• Silhouette, value grouping, and readability
• Placement, rhythm, and echoing
• Turning mistakes into creative discoveries

We’ll also talk about how to separate your art from your identity as an artist, and how to use references as springboards for personal, authentic work.

Most importantly, this class is about exploration, curiosity, and playfulness — because leading with a spirit of lighthearted discovery is, paradoxically, the most powerful (and joyful!) way to learn.

I can’t wait to see what you create. 🌿

Student Reviews

"This class was wonderful! I feel like my whole approach to art has changed thanks to the concept of Notan. The teacher is very engaging and encouraging, and her passion for art is clear and shines through in her teaching. Thank you Marie-Noëlle! :)"
— Robert Archer

"This class is so timely for me as I have recently learned about Notan and have wanted to know more. The clarity and instruction in this are excellent. The teacher is clearly passionate about art and her desire to share skills and knowledge with others. Her style is playful and friendly but not lightweight and there is some serious teaching going on here. I found the class content fascinating and inspiring. I certainly learned more about the concept of Notan and how it is used by artists to find the lights and darks of a subject but I also liked how she extended her studies to develop a more creative approach. Thank you.. I will enjoy my own study of this subject even more now."
—Christine Barnes

"What a fantastic class! Marie-Noëlle does a wonderful job of explaining the role of composition, balance, and value in art, introducing the idea of notan, and walks you through some wonderful exercises in all of these concepts. I loved the master studies, abstract exploration, and subject matter deep dive, all through a focus on light and dark values and composition. It was wonderful to explore these techniques both through ink in my sketchbook as well as using Procreate. I highly recommend this class!"
— Elisabeth Wellfare