Josef Albers’ Simultaneous Contrast   Structural/Sculptural Design

September 2021

Team: Ana Pariso

Instructor: Kristine Matthews

A painted ramp that demonstrates Josef Albers' principle of Simultaneous Contrast. This principle is seemingly difficult to depict with 3D elements because of shadows or lighting interferences. However, the effect is seen here through large enough objects and successful color choices. 

The construction consists of two wooden balls, two wooden ramps with metal rails screwed in, and a foam board. The board and ramps were spray-painted in equal parts brown and yellow, and the balls were spray-painted with the same color of green. 

While rolling back and forth on their respective ramps, each ball appears as a different shade of green against the brown and yellow backdrop. As the balls decelerate and are seen side-by-side, it is clear that they are the same color.