COLOR: Theory and Practice

Course Description

Summary

This course is a deep dive into color theory through rigorous hands-on practice. In the first half of the term students will develop an awareness and understanding of color’s perceptual, sensory, and material properties through color investigations and exercises using specific materials such as gouache, pastels, and collage. In the second half of the term we will delve into the personal, cultural, symbolic, social, and political aspects of color through more open ended projects allowing students to develop an individual approach to color use and experimentation with materials of their choice.

We will supplement our studio investigations by considering the work of historical color theorists such as Munsell, Itten, Goethe, and Albers, with emphasis on Josef Albers' Interaction of Color. We will read contemporary writing on color that may include texts like: Michael Taussig’s “What Color is the Sacred?,” David Batchelor’s “Chromophobia,” and Maggie Nelson’s “Bluets.” We will also study work by contemporary artists including Kerry James Marshall, Byron Kim, and Lisa Yuskavage, among many others.

Students may be required to purchase materials with an estimated cost of up to $200.