The value of value

The first section of my color study warp was neutral monochromes – black, white, and gray. So I used it to study value.

The first sample I wove was (almost) pure black and white. I wanted to show a section with high value contrast:

This is very high contrast, so energetic, but it also has a bit of a sterile feel.

For the second sample, I decided to introduce some grays. (Unfortunately, my grays when dyed came out distinctly blue-tinged, so not quite neutral, but try to ignore that.) Here we are with the second sample:

Another clean, classic look – but not as stark feeling as the black and white sample.

For the third sample, I introduced a wide range of values by blending white, light gray, medium gray, and black in varying quantities. Since they were randomly placed, the result was rather chaotic:

This, while chaotic, also has a much more nuanced (and lively) feel than the previous sample, with plenty of diversity in value.

Finally, I decided to do one sample with primarily lighter values and one sample with mainly darker values:

Here you can see how value affects mood – the first sample has a much “lighter” and more contemplative feel than the second sample, which feels rather dark and moody.

I’ve woven two other sets of samples, which I’ll use to illustrate my Designing Fabrics Study Group article (due tomorrow!). That article will be about the effect of value, particularly value contrast, on perception of color. The main problem I’m having with that article is photography! I have eleven samples to be photographed and converted to black and white, and it’s been remarkably difficult getting the photos to come out true to life. Fortunately my photographer friend Lieven has been helping out with advice, so as soon as the sun comes up, I’m going to reshoot my photos. I have a gray card which will help me keep the colors and values in sync across all eleven samples.

And, since I forgot to include a kitten in my last post (how could I have forgotten such wonderful and engaging creatures?!?), here is a photo with two kittens, practicing yoga on the couch. Stretch kittens! Is that like a stretch limo?