Monday, Nov 8 Studio and Homework for Nov 10

Review progress of Chuck Close ink wash self portrait.
Complete portrait in class.
Begin grid for larger monochromatic portrait in red or blue.

Assess your successes and mistakes from your primary effort as you approach this second phase of our Chuck Close series.

Wednesday, November 3 Studio / Assignment for Mon, Nov 8: Chuck Close Studio Assignment

in class on Wed, 11/3
 Creativity and the Brain, a discussion between Chuck Close, Richard Serra, Oliver Sachs and others on Charlie Rose.

Create a grid with squares no larger than 1/2" over a b/w print of your face
Recreate a grid of the same proportions onto a piece of watercolor paper approx 8.5 x 11 inches in size

required media: hard charcoal pencil, ruler, watercolor paper, india ink or black watercolor

homework for Monday, 11/ 8
*Review the Chuck Close assignment guidelines in the post below as well as the Chuck Close links on
  the right hand side of this screen.
*Use inventive texture and value patterns based on each square on your photograph.
*DO NOT DRAW YOUR FACE ON THIS PAPER. Interpret the values of each square of the photo
  onto the watercolor paper
* This small study must be completed sometime before the end of class on Monday.
* Bring materials for beginning your second, larger portrait in class on Monday.

Please post any questions you may have about the assignment in the comment section below.

Wednesday, November 3: Chuck Close Studio Assignment

Please note: you must check the blog regularly - otherwise you may have missed the posting of assignment 18 for Monday Nov 1. Many of you have already sent in your history inspired watercolors as required. If you missed this post please scroll down below these many images to see it,  click on assignment 18  to the right or visit this  link.


It is the most recent curriculum post, requesting that you send your completed art history inspired watercolor to this Watercolor blog using the blog email address I gave you - and that you bring a photograph of yourself to class on Wed. We WILL resume class on November 3!


REMINDER: You will need a photograph of yourself appropriate for a Chuck Close inspired self portrait. Please note: showing teeth in the photo is not recommended. Chuck Close portraits NEVER include smiling faces!


Chuck Close / Preparation

Watch the Charlie Rose interview linked on the right after reviewing examples of his work in the links provided.

Draw a grid (half inch recommended) grid over a scan or xerox of your photograph. Work from the center towards the sides, both vertically and horizontally or from one diagonal to the other (much trickier) Begin by creating a small / one to one value scale of your photo using india ink in various shades of gray and invented texture and dry brush techniques.


After creating your small value study in india ink you will create a larger study using color. 
Divide your watercolor paper into a grid with the the same number of squares. Slowly build up the value patters using varying shades of a monochromatic color of your choice. Use invented texure and pattern which is abstract yet symbolic while creating a dimensional value pattern than in totality, reflects and looks like you. Review the examples of this technique in class.

Materials:

A photograph of you or a digital scan of your drivers license photo
Watercolor Paper

ruler

hard charcoal pencil 

kneaded eraser

watercolors

india ink

pointed and flat brushes

Considerations: 1. Demonstrate an understanding of the portraiture of Chuck Close. Understand how an artist discovers and manipulates technique and form in while developing a series or style. 2. Use a ruler to creating a vertical/horizontal or diagonal grid -  demonstrate skills in enlarging a composition and proportion using a grid. 3. Recognize values and create values patterns using line, pattern and simulated textures. Develop Contrast and gray scale through the use of value patterns and dry brush technique. This assignment combines the study of Chuck Close's portraits with techniques you developed when looking at the watecolors of Paul Klee and Charles Burchfield. (value, gradation and drybrush) In the meantime I am reviewing the work you have posted on the blog along with your portfolio work. I did not anticipate that I would need surgery to reconstruct my ankle during the time I'd hoped to write your assessments. It has been challenging, to say the least, as the pace of everything has changed for the moment. I look forward to seeing everyone tomorrow, Wed, Nov 3!! We will review more of the work of artist Chuck Close and you will begin your self-portraits.