Tip of the Month - February 2002

The more that I look at the principles & elements of design, the more that I see & feel their interconnectedness. The elements are the means or as I call them the "tools" that we use to achieve the principles or my word the "rules".

Each of the "tools" can be used to fulfill a "rule", ie. COLOR can create UNITY, TEXTURE can be used to create BALANCE, VALUE can create CONFLICT, etc. But amongst the "rules" GRADATION also applies to technique - the application of paint. Here are some ways to show GRADATION technically.

	In example 1 paint is applied to a moistened surface in the shape of a sphere. The color gradates from light yellow to blue-green.
In example 2 stripes of color are painted next to each other while each one is still wet.
	In example 3 transparent layers of color are painted over each other as a series of glazes, allowing for a gradual transition.
In example 4 texture is applied lightly & gradually becomes more dense.
	In example 5 brush strokes go through gradual change either as a continuing stroke or a serious of strokes.

Think of GRADATION as having the ability to wear two hats.




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