9/23/16 3D Design

Today's Class- Today we moved on to another design principle- symmetry and asymmetry.  Symmetry can be defined as identical mirror like appearances on both sides of a perceived axis.  It is not uncommon in nature, as many animals show bilateral symmetry (a mirror like split right down the center) or radial symmetry (the mirror/axis can divide in multiple directions)  Symmetry provides order and structure, but may be dull, so artists often work asymmetry into compositions in both 2D and 3D art.  I showed art historical slides that demonstrated both concepts, as well as balance, which is between the two ideas.  Then the class began a portfolio exercise related to the topic.

How to make this up- The first step is to use pencil to create 5 simple memory sketches (don't require copying from actual references) of items that have some kind of symmetry, which was just to get people thinking about the concept.  The second step was to start making a three dimensional composition built around a symmetrical object.  Start with a heavy weight (such as foam core or mat board) base, about 8"x10", and construct three dimensionally using bristol board and glue.  The composition must feature a representation of an object that shows symmetry, but the whole composition should not be symmetrical.  Whether it's balanced or unbalanced is up to you.  Below are some student examples from previous semesters, including some that show two views of each piece (from above and from the side).

Below are two examples from today's class.

Boat, waves, palm tree

Ribbons, spool of thread

This is a portfolio exercise and must be completed before the end of the semester to receive full credit.

Homework-  The Make 100 module project is due at the beginning of class on September 30, 2016.  We will open the class with a critique of the module pieces, which will be graded and returned that day.  

For next class 9/30/16- We will begin our next graded project, which addresses the concept of positive and negative space through the medium of relief sculpture, which we will construct with foam core.  The starting point will be skeletal structures.  Students will choose a portion of a skeleton (human or animal) and reproduce it as a relief, with the bones shown as positive shapes.  With that complete, the students will be asked to create a second relief, one that shows a different subject, but shares some common relationships of positive and negative space.  Most student just use the classic white foam core, but I have allowed students to use a colored foam core for either the positive or negative space to help emphasize the difference between positive and negative shapes.  Below are some student examples from previous semesters:

Each relief will be 12" x 12".  Bring enough foam core to make the base and elevated parts of two relief sculptures, pencil and eraser, white glue, an x-acto knife and spare blades.  I will have skeletal images for students to work from, or they can provide their own.