NEXT SESSION: APRIL 6:
Congratulations to all on the successful completion of yet another challenge. We are on the “back 10,” and we slide into Challenge 12 this week with Vibrant Vessels. This week will bring two big challenges that brush jockeys like us tend to face now and again: ellipses and symmetry. But wait—these taxing aspects are balanced with TWO, yes, TWO special surprises—another 15-minute extension!!! AND Premixing is allowed!!! That’s right—you can sit back and take it easy with a 45-minute window and a ton of premixing at your disposal. Masterpieces are expected. LOL!
Some concepts for this week:
The term symmetry can cover a number of concepts which involve relationships between components of a whole. Specifically, here, we will use symmetry to describe a correspondence between “opposite” halves of a shape or form on either side of an axis or set of axes. The axis of symmetry is a line that divides an object into two equal halves, thereby creating a mirror-like reflection of either side of the object. The term asymmetry simply describes a lack of symmetry.
In the realm of mathematics, an ellipse is a closed, symmetric curve which can be formed by intersecting a cone with a plane that is not parallel* or perpendicular to the cone’s base. The sum of the distances of any point on an ellipse from two fixed points (called the foci) remains constant no matter where the point is on the curve. *A circle can be considered a special case of an ellipse, in which the two foci coincide. (Although, in some contexts, this latter statement is debated in regards to the ontology of an ellipse.)
In the context of visual art, an ellipse is often defined simply as a “circle in perspective” or a “foreshortened circle” as barring the influence of optical distortion, it is an approximation of a commonly encountered shape that falls upon the retina when a circle is observed at an oblique angle relative to the viewer.
For many visual artists, the ellipse remains one of the most challenging shapes to draw or paint successfully. This deceptively simple, symmetrical oval has infuriated countless artists and continues to taunt us all with its smug elusiveness. Ok, that might be a bit much—but if you have tried to draw one of these closed symmetric curves, then you understand the frustration that would lead one to arrive at such a “passionate” description.
If you are interested, I’ve written a short but dense article on the ellipse here: Perception and the Ever-Elusive Ellipse. | Art and Articles
It’s also on Smartermarx here: Perception and the Ever-Elusive Ellipse
So get ready!
Parameters for Challenge #12, Vibrant Vessels: 1. The composition must contain one or more colorful vessels. 2. 45-minute time limit! 3. Premixing is allowed! 4. 5-stroke palette draw rule in effect.
Looking forward to seeing you all this week!!!