Disclosed is an image bar for use in an imaging apparatus, comprising a linear light valve array with a plurality of discrete, independently addressable pixel portions activatable between light transmitting, partially transmitting, and non-transmitting wavelengths by selective application of an electrical field. The pixel portions comprise, in the order stated, a first transparent substrate; a transparent electrode in contact with the first transparent substrate; a thin film comprising an electrochromic material in contact with the transparent electrode; a transparent electrolytic material in contact with the thin film; a counterelectrode in contact with the transparent electrolytic material; and a second substrate.