The following pages have as their aim a discussion and demonstration as to how Escher achieved some of his effects or devices. Concerning some of his tessellating-based prints, what I term as three distinct types of ‘devices' are used, either singly or in combination: (i) Black, Grey and White, (ii) Development, (iii) Counterchange. Although all three terms are to a degree self explanatory, clarification as to specifics should be established. Black, Grey and White
Frequently it will be seen that at a ‘beginning point' motifs 'emerge' from a grey ground, these gaining in intensity (along with a ‘development') until a stark black and white is reached. Typical examples include Development I, Liberation and Day and Night. Development Counterchange How he achieved the effects As such, this is intended as a practical guide, of which the following is taken from my own studies, suitably presented 'as appropriate' rather than an all-encompassing general theory detailing every last aspect. However, this is not to say that what follows is not systematic or thorough in approach. Indeed, it is most detailed to what I consider would be appropriate degree. Unfortunately, the process of putting further examples on show is somewhat inconvenient in terms of the time required, and so consequently any further examples I propose to put on hold to the neat update. However, due to the time factor involved, bearing in mind that this is meant to be a practical guide, I would be interested in hearing if any of this is of actual use or interest. This being so, to gauge the degree of interest, further updates will depend on the reader in that only upon request (by e-mail) will this then appear. |