9/13/12 2D Design

Today's Class-  Tonight we began our study of two dimensional art with the most basic unit of mark making, the point or dot.  The class did a short portfolio exercise involving dots, and then began a graded project also using dots.

How to make this up-

Wallpaper Exercise

Divide a sheet of your 18" x 24" paper into thirds using pencil.  You will then create three patterns using only dots.  You may make dots with either or both black markers.  The dots may form patterns that are pure geometry, or may form into recognizable images.  The only rule is that the pattern must repeat at least once from the top edge to the bottom, just as traditional wallpaper would.  Above is a student example from a previous semester.  Spend about 45 minutes working on it.  This is a portfolio exercise and must be made up by the end of the semester to get full credit.


Graded Stipple Drawing Project

Most of class was spent working on a graded project, a stipple value drawing.  This is a type of drawing made entirely from tiny dots of ink.  The relative number and spacing of the dots will create a range of value, allowing light, medium, and dark tones.  The source for your drawing will be a black and white photograph of your choosing.  It must be a photo of a real three dimensional subject and works best when there is a wide range of values.  Above is a student example from a previous semester. (click photo to enlarge) Additional examples and the full instructions can be found here.

Homework- This graded stipple drawing project is due at the beginning of class on September 27, 2012.  You must bring both the original photo and your drawing.  We will have a group critique at the start of class and they will be graded and returned before the end of class.

For next class 9/20/12-  We will begin our study of line with a series of exercises in contour drawing.  Bring your 18" x 24" pad, pencils, and eraser.  The subject of our exercises will be shoes.  Since I don't have shoes to distribute to everyone, you'll have to provide one yourself, some kind of enclosed shoe.  (avoid sandals and flip flops, not enough to draw)  Either bring an extra, or be prepared to take one off your own foot.