Please note! Course description is confirmed for two academic years (1.8.2018-31.7.2020), which means that in general, e.g. Learning outcomes, assessment methods and key content stays unchanged. However, via course syllabus, it is possible to specify or change the course execution in each realization of the course, such as how the contact sessions are organized, assessment methods weighted or materials used.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
By completing the course you will gain a deeper understanding and sensibility to colour as a visual element in art works, design objects and media. You will understand the basics of the mechanisms of visual perception, the modes of appearance of colour and their use in art, media and design. You will be better equipped to utilize colour in your own work and will understand methods of identifying and classifying colours.
Credits: 4
Schedule: 30.10.2018 - 11.12.2018
Teacher in charge (valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022): Sini Vihma
Teacher in charge (applies in this implementation): Harald Arnkil
Contact information for the course (valid 10.10.2018-21.12.2112):
Harald Arnkil
E-mail: harald.arnkil@aalto.fi
CEFR level (applies in this implementation):
Language of instruction and studies (valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022):
Teaching language: English
Languages of study attainment: English
CONTENT, ASSESSMENT AND WORKLOAD
Content
Valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022:
This course combines theory and practice. Exploration of colours' aesthetic and functional potential by experimental means. Lectures on perception and use of colour in art and design. Exercises on colour interaction and aesthetics (colour induction, spatial effects of colour, colour as sign, code and signal, colour harmony and expression). Brief introduction to colour order systems. Hands-on exercises and experiments in colour composition (executed mainly in colour paper collage) alternate with introductions to theory of visual perception and the relationship of colour, light and space.
Assessment Methods and Criteria
Valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022:
Assignments, lectures, demonstrations and excursions. Assessment criteria: Attendance, active participation, course portfolio (assignments and lecture notes), the student's own progress and ability utilize and express what he/she has learned.
Workload
Valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022:
Lectures, classroom exercises and critiques 56 h
Indenpendent work, work on individual assignment and portfolio 52h
DETAILS
Study Material
Valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022:
Arnkil, H., Colours in the Visual World (2013)
(Further reading)
Arnkil, H. (ed.), Colour and Light Concepts and confusions (2012)
Albers, J., Interaction of Color (1975)
Gregory, R., Eye and Brain, The Psychology of Seeing, (1998)
Livingstone, M., Vision and Art: the biology of seeing, (2002)
Zwimpfer, M., Color: Light, Sight, Sense (1988)
Substitutes for Courses
Valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022:
01291 Colour and perception
Prerequisites
Valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022:
No prerequisites.
SDG: Sustainable Development Goals
5 Gender Equality
12 Responsible Production and Consumption
FURTHER INFORMATION
Details on the schedule
Applies in this implementation:
Time: 30 October – 11 December 2018, Tuesdays 9.15 –16.30/17.00
Place: A124–125, Otakaari 1X and T003, Väre, Maarintie 13
30 Oct. 9.15–16.30 A124–125
AM Introduction
Modes of appearance of colour
PM Relativity and constancy of colour I: Colour and light
Lightness constancy (lightness and brightness)
Staircase Gelb demo
Hue constancy (colour and illumination)
6 Nov. 9.15–16.30 A124-125
AM Colour variables
Colour concepts, language and terminology
PM Relativity and constancy of colour II: Contrast
Simultaneous contrasts (colour induction)
7 Nov. 13.00–20.00 Optional event:Experience Colour!organized by Aalto Experience Platform, The Aalto Colour Research Group and The Finnish Colour Association. Venue: Espoon kaupunginteatteri /The International Theatre of Finland, Revontulentie 8, 02100 Espoo.Sign up here by 23 October.
13 Nov. 9.15–16.30 A124-125
AM Categorising and ordering colours
Brief introduction to colour order systems
PM NCS Natural Colour System
Exercises with the NCS
20 Nov. 9.15–16.30 T003
AM Border contrast
Border qualities: soft, aggressive, lively, dull…
PM Borders, transparency and depth
Spatial effect and spatial illusion
27 Nov. 9.15–16.30 T003
9.15 –10.00 Review of previous assignment
10.00–12.00 The role of colour in spatial design, Vertti Kivi, dSign Vertti Kivi & Co
PM The functionality and aesthetics of colour
Colour as sign and symbol
Assignment: Colour design
4 Dec. 9.15–16.30 T003
AM Aesthetics of colour: harmony and expression
Concepts of colour harmony: visual comfort and balance, unity of colour variables, etc.
Colour expression: associations and emotion
PM Work on assignments: Colour harmony and expression & Colour design
11 Dec. 9.15–16.30 T003
AM Work on assignments: Colour harmony and expression & Colour design
PM Wrap-up
Review of Assignments: Colour harmony and expression & Colour design
Evaluation of course work and discussion