216 m Chapter6 } Using transparent colors. Use transparent colors to paint the head and face. Mix paint with water to create a skin-tone color and apply it to the entire face, but leave some highlighted areas, such as the eyesockets, nose bridge, upper cheekbones, and the top of the chin. Add shadow colors to shadow areas as mentioned previously. Reflected colors should be applied at the feature's bottom portions for a three- dimensional form. Paint the hair using the previous technique. A good rendering is one that is accurate in its proportions with exciting movement, balance, facial expression, and clothing that works and fits with the body. State the garment well; apply dynamic use of space; add visible pencil strokes to increase dimension to the fabric; use vigorous lines to accent and add swing to the figure; and accent colors for a harmonious and well-contrasted color equilibrium. Create your own imaginative and unique images. decoratinG the BackGround of the costuMe desiGn A background supports and enhances a design but should not take away from the design. The background can be painted in color or can include shadows and shapes. It can be illustrated with objects such as furniture or scenery. Frames or particular lines may be used as well. A background creates an environment that sets off the figure and the costumes. Consider proper background decoration as part of the design concept; it enhances and enriches the three-dimensional effect of the whole body. When choosing a background, try to create a mood that fits the play and the character rather than just painting any random color. Keep the background style of the design consistent throughout each drawing to unify the design themes. Using complementary colors is recommended; I often choose black or gray colors, because those tones can easily be harmonized and blended with other colors. Shading underneath a figure's feet exists in most of my designs. I choose to do so because it is simple, fast, and easy to control, yet provides dimension and space. It also provides a location or horizon for the figure to stand on. Some shadows in the background behind figures are not necessarily logically positioned, but are rather decorations. Even cast shadows added underneath feet do not exactly reflect the direction from which the light is coming, and may not match the shadows on the garments. They are just decorations that provide contrast. Creating a type background for a figure is a personal choice. You may develop a uniquely styled background or choose to do no background at all. Obviously, decorating the background should not be the main focus for costume-design renderings. Costumes and character figures are the central concentration. Background decoration is always just a complementary element. Adding a busy background is like drawing legs on a snake--it is uncalled-for and may ruin the design. If you choose to add a background design, remember these two words: contrast and decorate. Contrast value, size, color, texture, and details. Decorate the elements you put on the background in a supportive and harmonious manner that won't take away from your costumes. Figures 6-63 through 6-76 are design samples of creating background.