4/9/15 2D Design

Today's Class- Tonight we continued with color, talking about the use of limited color palettes.  Many artists will depict colors in representational images by trying to match the actual colors of the objects as closely as possible.  However, sometimes artists will choose other color combinations that leave standard reality, yet still follow the same compositional logic.  I showed slides of a few dozen historical works that employed some common types of limited palettes, then discussed such strategies as monochromatic, complementary, analogous, and color triads.  After that, students started on a new graded project, a series of color studies where a black and white composition was converted to color using four different strategies.

How to make this up-  As with the stipple project from early in the semester, start with a black and white photo of a real three dimensional object or scene, preferably with a wide range of values.  Use a pencil to divide a piece of your 18" x 24" paper into 4 equal boxes of 9" x 12".  Reproduce a basic compositional sketch of your photo in all four boxes.  Horizontal or vertical orientations are both fine.  The pencil sketch is just to show you the composition- use the photo as reference in painting values and details.  You will do four color studies using your acrylic paint, choosing from among six optional strategies.  Above and below are student examples from previous semesters.  Additional student examples and the specific instructions for each combination can be found here.

Homework- This limited color palettes graded project is due at the beginning of class on April 30, 2015.

The color temperature graded project is due at the beginning of class on April 16, 2015.

For next class 4/16/15- We will start a new graded project in the medium of mixed media collage.  Your finished piece will include collaged, drawn, and painted elements.  It will also address a specific theme, which you will be randomly assigned that night.  Bring your 18" x 24" pad, pencil, markers, paints, brushes, palette, scissors, and glue.  I'll have my usual pile of magazines, but you may bring your own if you wish.  We will also look at the completed color temperature projects.