The Black Canvas Series: Inverts

The Black Canvas Series: Inverts

The images you see here were all created digitally, using a Kaleidoscope App. When we were children, we had a toy called a Kaleidoscope. It consisted of a viewing tube in which there were pieces of slivered colored strips, and when viewed through the viewing end, one could twist the other end and see an endless array of colored patterns. Geometric designs that fell into place as the toy was manipulated. A Kaleidoscope App works in a similar fashion using photographs or images. It separates the different parts, or colors, then arranges them in constantly changing geometric patterns.

These images were created from (royalty free) photographs of colorful Japanese or Siamese fighting fish. For all their beauty and vibrant colors, these particular specimens of the fish family are quite aggressive and don’t dwell or play well with others. That might have been why I began playing with the images, in the first place. I was finding myself both confused and depressed by the constant conflict within our Modern Day society, and the fear mongering that creates it. Fear is a natural phenomenon and is intended to create an energy flow that allows us to stand and fight or flee (run like hell) for safety.

I am a writer, and I was finding it difficult not to lash out at some of the more outrageous shenanigans I saw going on around me. I’m also definitely not a fighter. I needed a safe place to run to and that’s what happened when I stumbled onto these photographs. They seemed to beg to be played with, so I did.

Inversion is a process of movement: inside out, upside down. When applied to color, it means moving to the opposite side of the color spectrum and replacing the original hue with its opposite shade, dark to light, etc. I chose the black background because it makes the colors pop, unlike white which can wash the color out or make it less distinct. On a computer paint program, one can do it with a single click, as well as choose to add more pleasing colors as the artist’s preference dictates. There are six sets of inverts here. The first is the original and the second is the inverted or altered image.

My color therapy has seen me through over six months, during which I have not once called anyone “STUPID”, at the top of my lungs, or punched another human being in the face. And I have amassed an entire library of images that soothes my soul each time I play with them. I have considered attempting to name them, but that might take another six months, and to be honest, I’d rather make more rather than try to define them. If you have ideas, please feel free to make suggestions.

Elizabeth Crawford 12/1/2018