sombreados

Sombreados is a term used in Spanish-language art discourse to describe shading or tonal variation techniques used to model form and suggest light and shadow in two-dimensional representations. They are applied across media, including drawing, painting, engraving, and digital art.

Etymology: The word derives from sombra, shadow, and is used to refer to the process or result of creating shaded areas. In practice, sombreados can encompass methods that create gradual tonal transitions as well as discrete value steps.

Techniques: Common approaches include line-based shading such as hatching and cross-hatching; stippling; blending and glazing; smudging; and digital shading using gradients, opacity, and lighting models. The choice of technique affects the perceived texture and volume.

Context: Sombreados are essential for conveying depth, volume, and spatial relationships in flat media. They vary by period and style, from the defined contours of classical drawing to the smooth gradients of contemporary digital art. Mastery of sombreados is often taught in drawing, painting, and printmaking.

See also: Chiaroscuro, value, shading, hatching, stippling, blending.