Visual Elements - Light and Color
Explain the difference between complementary colors and analogous colors.
Complimentary colors are hues which are directly opposite of each other on the color wheel. Analogous colors are hues containing a common color, but in different proportions.
The photograph above is of a traditional Chinese wedding. Compare it to a wedding you would traditionally see in countries such as the U.S., and how is it an example of how color can create symbolic meaning.
In the wedding in the picture, the bride and groom are wearing primarily red, as well as the decorations are also overwhelmingly the same value of red that is in the close. In a traditional wedding in the U.S., the bride is traditionally in white, and the groom in black. The decorations and other items can be any color. The red in the photograph sets a certain mood and signifies meaning for this wedding and culture, that is different from others.
Define the following term: - intensity
Intensity: The brightness or dullness of a color.
What medium is the work of art above? What do you notice about the artwork with regards to color and value?
It is a contemporary tattoo, created by an artist in Germany. The artist chose to use monochromatic color. Therefore, he used primarily one color but varied the value with color intensity and shading. By using different color values, depth and texture have been created just through the use of color.
Define the art term, light. Describe the purpose and importance of light.
Light is the illumination coming from a light source. Most importantly, light is what allows us to see images or objects at all. Without light in art, we would be unable to see, or differentiate between objects, or even create them. Light is the element that allows us to see color, and allows for shading and shadowing to exist, which helps create a three dimensional appearance.
With regards to colors used in art, define the term, symbolic meaning. Name at least two examples of colors which have symbolic meaning in American culture.
Symbolic meaning with color refers to the special meaning(s) a color can represent to certain culture. Answers may vary, but should include at least 2 examples: seeing red feeling blue green with envy
How has the artist used light to create a desired affect in this piece? What do you hypothesize the source of the light to be and why?
The artist has used light to direct the eye's attention toward the figures sitting at the tables. Although we cannot see the source of the light, based on prior knowledge we can guess that the light is coming from a window, The window is higher than the people because the light is being cast downwards.
Name the primary colors. Why are these colors considered the only "primary colors"?
The primary colors are red, blue, and yellow. These three colors are considered the primary colors because all others colors are created by mixing some combination of these colors.
What is the difference between tint and tone? What element of art do they relate to?
Tint is created by adding white to a hue (color), while tone is created by adding black to a hue (color). Tint and tone are related to shading, which is determined based on the 10step value scale.
Define the following term:- value
Value: The degree of lightness or darkness in a hue.
