Interaction and transparency

In Class Assignment

Based on the images shown on median transparency and dark transparency, experiment with transparency, using gouache and color-aid paper in your sketchbook.   Create eight studies that exhibit transparency (4 median, 4 dark)

The object of this exercise is to create the optical illusion of transparency with opaque color and is not to be confused with literal transparency.  The illusion of transparency enhances the appearance of spatial depth in 2D design.  This illusion is produced by one shape overlapping another and thereby forming a third shape that appears to be part of each. Imagine two translucent rectangles superimposed at right angles to form a cross.  Emerging at the intersection of the cross is a square, with the color of the square determining the effect of transparency.  There are two distinct categories of transparency

In Median Transparency-the illusion of transparency exists where the value of the color at the overlap is halfway between that of the two parent colors. The hue of the overlapping area blends the hues of the two overlying colors equally.

In Dark Transparency- the illusion of transparency exists where a color of the overlapping area is darker in value than both colors that appear to overlap. The hue in a dark transparency blends the hues of the two parent colors.

Outside Assignment: 

(Albers) Color Interaction

Recommended text: The Interaction of Color (Revised and Expanded), Josef Albers, Yale University Press, 2006 (on reserve in the library).

• Create two 5x8" related and non objectional designs using geometric or organic shapes or a combination of both.  Use a different palette of colors in each. Use at least 10 to 12 shapes and at least 6 different colors. Employ each color more than once in your designs amongst different surroundings to show the effects of color interaction.

• Employ color interaction effects learned in class. Think about the interaction of shapes and color for maximum effect. Consider shapes within shapes, shapes running across shapes and shapes against shapes. Remember, that the repetition of color creates harmony. Good color interaction will give the appearance of a greater variety of color than the number of hues actually used.

• Materials: Gouache, Color-aid paper.  Try and employ equal parts of each.

• Mount your 5x8 studies on 9”x 12” Bristol. Use a 1” border. Keep border clean. Craftsmanship in the execution of the studies and presentation is important.

PART II

(Albers) Color Transparency

Recommended text: The Interaction of Color (Revised and Expanded), Josef Albers, Yale University Press, 2006 (on reserve in the library).

Create a 7x10 study based on overlapping geometric or organic shapes or a combination of both.  Exhibit the use of transparency in your composition.   You should include several median and a dark transparencies in the composition.    You might want to include a background or try and keep the composition somewhat simple, as transparency has a tendency to get confusing when you have too many overlapping shapes. 

Mount your 7x10 transparency study on a 9x10 sheet of Bristol. 

Due  Friday April 10

Interaction Examples

Transparency Example

Previous student work