While enrolled in a color class at the U of MN, our professor, Marian Ortolf-Bagley, encouraged us to use abstract images so as to focus on the color within the composition rather than a subject. Our task began with a contour drawing of a tree. From there we 'poured' complementary colors into the voids, and then removed any linear elements.
Contour drawing of tree
Colors poured into voids
(mouse over image)
Cropped for exercises
Using a color wheel divided into various shades and tints is one method of identifying possible options for color schemes. The split complementary relationship shown in this example presents many possible combinations. By varying the saturation and experimenting with shades and tints within the hue relationship, you can achieve quite a variety of palette options. (Click on the wheel at the left to view a larger image.)
Moderately-high contrast, medium value, composition using fully saturated hues.
High contrast, medium value, composition using shades, tints & various saturation levels.
Moderately-low contrast, medium-light value, using tints & various saturation levels.
Moderate contrast, medium value, using shades, tints & various saturation levels.
Moderately-low contrast, medium-dark value, using shades & various saturation levels.
Low contrast, medium value, using shades, tints & various saturation levels.
Moderately-high contrast, medium value, using shades, tints & various saturation levels.
High contrast, light value, using shades, tints & various saturation levels.
Continue tutorial, view: Color Studies
