Charlotte Ridley

Through my pattern exploration I decided to focus on the connection between small details being layered over larger abstract shapes. This way I was able to incorporate colour layering techniques underneath abstract line-work that has the potential to be extracted and developed as patterns. My inspiration initially came from nature, and I used these initial findings to move through realistic to abstract interpretations of shapes, and exploring combinations of backgrounds and foregrounds within each piece. In some cases I took inspiration from the textures created by the mediums I used and in other cases, I formed colour palettes based on collage work and observational findings. Through this exercise I discovered the potential that the motifs I chose held to become larger patterns when repeated, isolated and rearranged. Therefore, throughout my future pattern development stages I will be able to look at the infinite possibilities that any pattern/colour combination has to be interpreted in multiple ways. I now also understand the importance of the space created between markings as I experimented with the proximity of different patterns.

For this project I wanted to try multiple different art styles whilst simultaneously moving through the colour wheel. `My aim was to create a range of pieces from detailed ink drawings to abstract interpretations of shapes in order to represent a full variation of colour combinations. `It was challenging to reduce the amount of black/ darker toned overlays or outlines because those features are normally prominent in my work. However, through my exploration of the different extremes of the colour wheel, I was able to introduce coloured accents into the pieces, and experiment with alternative ink outlines to frame features, rather than just black. I found this use of detail successful and is something I will be able to incorporate into my pattern development (for example). I also found the process of recording my colour swatches to be very useful as I progressed. I always used to choose colours within a very limited range as I created pieces, but by colour swatching, I was able to match colours with more focus on specific tones and hues rather than just the default paint composition. And, I was able to achieve this through swatching each colour as I proceeded, as seen in some of my photos.