Chromatic Notan & 3-Value • Level 3
Luminance Contrast, Value Hierarchy & Complementary Harmonies
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1. The Squint Test Rule
Pure hues with equal luminance (e.g. Middle Red on Middle Green) fail as Notan. Choose colors with a minimum 60% value spread between ground and cut.
2. Dow's 3-Value Hierarchy
Base paper = 50% Mid-Tone Gray or Kraft paper.
High-Key Cuts = White / Pale Cream.
Low-Key Cuts = Pitch Black / Deep Navy.
High-Key Cuts = White / Pale Cream.
Low-Key Cuts = Pitch Black / Deep Navy.
3. Temperature Dynamics
Warm cuts (Ochre, Crimson) visually advance; cool grounds (Cobalt, Slate) recede, creating illusory relief on flat paper.
Study A: 3-Value Tonal Scale (Gray Base)
Study B: High-Luminance Complementary Pair
| Color Component | Selected Paper Hue | Luminance % | Squint Test Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mounting Ground: | _______________________ | ____ % | [ ] Pass [ ] Fail |
| Base Paper (Positive): | _______________________ | ____ % | [ ] Pass [ ] Fail |
| Mirrored Flips (Negative): | _______________________ | ____ % | [ ] Pass [ ] Fail |