Professor Groat

Color Theorist Research Project

Due Date: December 4

You are to investigate a historically significant color theorist, and then present your research through an Internet “blog” at www.blogger.com

Objective:

The objective is for students to teach people globally about the origin of modern day color theory.

Research Criteria:

• At least 15 images / charts posted on blog that illustrate both the social context and seminal color theory research.

• Each image and posting must include a brief description relating to the significance of the image.

• Images and charts can be obtained both from the Internet and created.

Components of Research:

1. A brief biographical sketch of the color theorist, including names, dates, ethnicity, etc.

2. An overview of what the color theory or theories specifically involved.

3. An outline of how the new color theory or theories impacted existing viewpoints on color.

4. A synopsis of the social context that the theorist worked within.

5. References to other color theorists that they may have collaborated with or influenced.

6. Research that the theorists may have been involved with that was unrelated to the scientific study of color.

7. Your own observations on how the theory both impacted and has been implemented within the technological world of today.

8. A presentation of charts / graphics that support the research.

9. Unique discoveries or theories that you have made that are not outlined.

Color Theorist Selections:

1. Leonardo Da Vinci (1475-1564)
2. Leone Battista Alberti (1404-1472)
3. Issac Newton (1642-1727)
4. Jacques Chrisophe le Blon (1667-1742)
5. Joann Wolfgang con Goethe (1749-1832)
6. Philip Otto Runge (1777-1810)
7. Michel Euge’ne Chevreul (1786-1889)
8. Ogden Rood (1831-1902)
9. James Clerk Maxwell (1831-1879)
10. Albert Munsell (1858-1918)
11. Moses Harris (1731-1785)
12. Ewald Hering (1834-1918)
13. Wilhelm Ostwald (1853-1932)
14. Joseph Albers (1888-1976)

Websites to Study:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Color_theory

Leone Battista Alberti (c.1435)

Leonardo da Vinci (c.1490)

Isaac Newton's theory of color (Opticks, 1704)

the Theory of Colors (1810) by the German poet and government minister

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

The Law of Simultaneous Color Contrast (1839)

by the French industrial chemist Michel Eugène Chevreul.

Albert Munsell (Munsell Book of Color, 1915

Color Theory | Art/Com 107

Professor Hall Groat | Fall 2008

PROJECT 1

COMMUNICATING THE SUSTAINABLE IDEAL THROUGH MIXED-MEDIA DESIGN

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Design is the method of putting form and content together. Design, just as art, has multiple

definitions; there is no single definition. Design can be art. Design can be aesthetics. Design

is so simple, that's why it is so complicated. –Paul Rand, American Designer 1914-1996

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Your assignment is to research and discuss sustainability. Then create two abstract mixed-media designs that are directed towards eliciting discussion relating to sustainability. Both designs must be based on the graphic painted work of British artist, Bridget Riley. The first design must be rooted in bilateral symmetry and the second one asymmetrical in form. There may be some of you who believe that this movement is less critical than others and perceive it as merely sociopolitical propaganda, and perhaps would like to express your perspective differently. You are the designer/artist; therefore you are free to express your unique viewpoint! However, the “forms” of your designs must meet the guidelines below.

Project Objective:

The objective of the designs are to elicit (or provoke) discussion regarding the sustainable movement, in addition to assisting you in understanding the expressive dimension of “value” in the visual arts.

Design Specifications—“The Project Criteria!”

The Designs must:

• Be created within square formats –either 6”x 6” or 12”x12” – you choose!
• First design must involve only low-key values: 0-#5 and be symmetrical.
• Second design must involve only high key values: #5-10 and be asymmetrical.
• The hard edge graphic shapes must be sharply contrasted with one another.
• Include natural found objects as mixed media elements, glued directly to paper, neatly attached within the graphic shapes and patterns. The inherent values of these found objects must correspond to the sequential organization of values used in the designs.
• The hardedge abstract design must reflect the geometry within your found objects.
• Use only grayscale, although you found objects may contain color.
• Implement all classical design principles.
• Both designs must be mounted on foam board

Classical Design Principles

Primary Principles: Unity, Variety, Hierarchy, Proportion

Support Principles: Scale, Balance, Rhythm, Repetition, Proximity

Elements of Art & Design

Shape, Space, Point, Line, Size, Color, Texture, Typography

Graded on

• How well you address the project criteria.
• Completing the evaluation form, and short essay.