Black Mirror For Painters
Painting Tool: How to make and use a black mirror to check your values
Using a black mirror demo video IS HERE!
Ta-da! You can see me photographing my new black mirror!
Below are simple instructions on how to make a cheap one. You’ll need one before you can use one:).
Purchase a narrow, empty black frame with glass… as if you’re going to frame a family photo or certificate. You’ll also need matte black spray paint and newspapers and a messy work area.
2. Take the backing off the frame and lay the frame and glass face down on a sheet of newspaper.
3. With adequate ventilation, evenly spray the back of the frame and glass- or remove the glass and spray it on one side only.
4. Use several thin coats- not 1 thick one. You do not want the paint to pool.
5. Check between newly dry coats to see when the glass reflects darkly but no longer has transparent spots.
6. When you can't see through it- and you see a good, but darker reflection in it, you are finished. Put the backing on again and use it!
How to Use a Black Mirror in Art to Check Value Relationships
In the above photos (forgive my bad hair), note that I am looking up into the mirrored reflection to see what’s in front of me. Yes, it will be upside-down but that’s okay. That helps force the brain to see what is actually there. You can tilt/angle the mirror up and down in the front, like a hat brim or duck bill. You can also angle it a little side to side on your forehead like I am doing in the 3rd photo. Notice where the mirror meets my eyebrows, it’s uneven.
