9/12/13 2D Design

Today's Class- On our first real day of class we started our study of two dimensional art by using the simplest of all marks, the dot or point.  The class did a portfolio exercise and started the first graded project of the semester.

How to make this up-  You will need to do the following exercise and project:

Wallpaper Exercise

Take a piece of your 18" x 24" paper, and use your pencil to divide it into three roughly equal vertical sections.  Then use your various black markers to create three patterns using nothing but dots.  The patterns can be pure geometry or form recognizable images.  As with classic wallpaper, the patterns must repeat somewhere between the top and the bottom.  Above is a student example from a previous semester.

This is a portfolio exercise and must be made up by the end of the semester to receive full credit.

Stipple Value Drawing

A stipple drawing is a value drawing made from nothing but dots of ink.  By varying the concentration of dots in a given area, values can be made lighter or darker, and with careful placement can show gradual changes in light and dark, and even simulate textures.  Students were asked to choose a black and white photo showing a three dimensional object, ideally with a wide range of light, medium, and dark values.  A pencil breakdown of the photo was done on paper, then dots of ink from your ultra fine point markers are used to match the values from the photo.  Above is a student example from a previous semester (click to enlarge and see the detail).  Additional examples and the detailed instructions for the assignment can be found here.  

Homework- The stipple drawing mentioned above is due at the beginning of class on September 26, 2013.  You must bring both the original source photo and the resulting drawing at that time.  Drawings will be graded and returned that night.

For next class 9/19/13-  We will start our study of line with some exercises in contour line.  Our subject will be shoes.  Since I do not have enough to provide one to everyone, you are responsible for making sure you have a shoe to draw.  (an closed shoe works best- avoid simple sandals and flip flops, not enough there to draw)  You can bring an extra one with you or be prepared to remove one from your foot. Bring your 18" x 24" pad, pencils and eraser, along with your shoe.