11/4/16 3D Design

Today's Class- The class started a new graded project today- sculpting a book.  A standard codex (hard covered book with a spine) is a three dimensional object, generally made from products derived from trees, which means we can make a sculpture from it.  I posted images of student projects from previous semesters and discussed the specific requirements for this project, then the class got started.

How to make this up-

There are two main categories, and everyone must choose one of them to try.

A. Single View scene-

In this option, the book is opened to a single point to reveal a three dimensional rendition.  It can be an object, or a scene.  Below are a few student examples from past semesters.

B. Changing View-

Different portions of the pages are carved, creating a sculpture that evolves as the viewer turns the pages.  This style takes advantage of changes in positive and negative space, and sets up relationships between both.  Below are four photos of one such book, and then two photos from a second such book.  These examples are both fairly rectilinear (almost like walking through architecture), but it can work with more organic shapes as well.

The following rules apply to both styles of book sculpture:

1) The book must be able to open and close at all times, as it originally did.

2) You may not paint or draw on any of the pages, though you can take advantage of any color or images printed on the pages by the publisher.  Any dark things you see on these pages are shadows created by carving the book.

3) All pages must remain attached to the book by their original binding.  You may use glue to repair a torn page, but not to build sculptural elements.

4) No required subject- images can be representative or abstract.

5) There should be at least 4 distinct layers of elements to establish depth of space.



Homework- Although this project seems simple, it takes a long time to do this process, so we will be continuing this in class next week as well.  After I see how far you get in class next week I'll decide when the piece will be due.  Make sure to have sharp replacement blades for your knife.

The plastics project (repurposed manufactured items) is due at the beginning of class on November 11, 2016.  Any other past projects that you still owe should be completed and submitted as soon as possible to receive partial credit.

For next class 11/11/16- The book project continues.  Bring a book, x-acto knife and spare blades, and any other items that you might find useful.  Bring the plastics project for critique and grading.