Fingerpaints and Fractals

Sample Pressure Experiments

The next set of experiments involved applying pressure a second time before the top paper is lifted.

Here we see the result of applying pressure along a straight line, using the blunt edge of a knife, perpendicular to the direction of pull (left) and parallel to the direction of pull (right).

On the left we see the patterns above and below the pressure line resemble one another, as far as the side on which the thinnest branches occur.

On the right, the pressure line appears to attract the thinnest branches, so these intersect the pressure line perpendicularly. Click each picture for an enlargement in a new window.

Here two parallel pressure lines were applied. The effects of the previous experiment are reinforced. Click each picture for an enlargement in a new window.

Next the pressure is applied in along a zig-zag path, perpendicular to the direction of pull (left) and parallel to the direction of pull (right).

Note again the tiny branches are oriented to intersect the pressure lines perpendicularly. Click each picture for an enlargement in a new window.

Now pressure is applied along circles, using cups.

Again, we see the tiny branches are oriented toward intersecting the circles perpendicularly, though not so perfectly.

Do you note any similarities in comparing these with the single pressure line, perpendicular to the direction of pull? Click each picture for an enlargement in a new window.

Return to Finger Paint Lab Sample.

Now pressure is applied along circles, using cups.
Again, we see the tiny branches are oriented toward intersecting the circles perpendicularly, though not so perfectly.
Do you note any similarities in comparing these with the single pressure line, perpendicular to the direction of pull? Click each picture for an enlargement in a new window.