Color
Optical Mixing​
Optical mixing, also known as partitive color, is the perception of color resulting from the combination of adjacent colors. In other words, when color is mixed optically, the blending occurs perceptually, and takes place between our eyes and our brain. The perceived blending of color increases with distance. This style of painting relied heavily on the use of color mixing and visual perception to create vibrant works that were both aesthetically pleasing and scientifically precise.
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In this project, you will look into the world of optical mixing inspired by the Pointillism technique pioneered by George Seurat. This project not only pays homage to Seurat's innovative approach to color but also provides you with an opportunity to experiment with optical mixing through a hands-on art exercise.
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Project Steps:
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Step 1: Research George Seurat Start by researching the life and works of George Seurat. Explore his contributions to the world of art, particularly his use of the Pointillism technique. Please write a short paper on this matter one to two pages long. Site your sources at the bottom of the paper. Any photos are not part of the paper.
Step 2: Use Acrylic paint or markers. Make sure you have all the necessary supplies to create your artwork.
Step 3: Identify a Subject Decide on a subject for your Pointillism artwork. It could be a landscape, portrait, still life, or any other theme that interests you. Keep in mind that the subject should allow you to experiment with color and optical mixing.
Step 4: Choose a Color Palette Select a limited color palette for your artwork. Think about the primary and secondary colors that you'll use and how they will blend optically when applied as small dots or strokes.
Step 5: Create Your Pointillism Artwork Begin the process of creating your Pointillism-inspired artwork. Apply small dots or strokes of color to your canvas or paper, using the chosen color palette. Be patient and deliberate in your approach, as the final result will rely on the visual blending of these dots.
Step 6: Document and Reflect Document your progress throughout the creation of your artwork. Take photographs at various stages of completion. As you work, reflect on your experience. What challenges did you encounter when using optical mixing? How did your chosen color palette affect the overall mood and perception of your artwork?
Step 7: Presentation Prepare your artwork for presentation. Mount it on a suitable surface if necessary.
Step 8: Reflect on Seurat's Influence In your final reflection, consider how George Seurat's work influenced your project. Discuss the challenges and insights you gained from experimenting with optical mixing in the Pointillism style.
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Sample
Assignment Writeup Rubric
Student's work
