basicdesign2spring2011: PROJECT 1: Anything but a Box

AT 104: Basic Design II

Semester: Spring 2011

Instructor: Cecilia Mandrile

Email: amandrile@newhaven.edu

Project 1: Anything but a Box

The Design Process

Step 1: Recognition of a Problem

An object that has length, height and depth is a three- dimensional form.

In the creation of a form there are three main characteristics; shape, mass and structure.

Shape refers to the contour outline of the form.

Mass refers to the solidness of the form.

Structure refers to way in which the form is constructed.

Art & Design foundations student must learn how to visualize and translate these characteristics into different three-dimensional forms.

Step 2: Definition of the Problem

The objective of this project is design a new three-dimensional form by “deconstructing” a box.

You can create anything you want from this cardboard box by additive and/or subtractive methods, exploring its colors, textures, surfaces’ possibilities.

Though, there are few considerations to take account of in your problem solving process:

1. You can only use the box as it is (e.g. don’t paint it or add extra objects/materials)

2. You must use the entire box in your reconstruction. NO remains should be left out of it.

3. The outcome of your reconstruction should be 3Dimensional.

4. The 3D reconstruction should achieve a sense of visual and structural Unity between its parts.

Step 3: Research and Preparation

1. Read Chapters 6: Problem Seeking and Problem Solving and 7: Developing Critical Thinking

2. Gather information about creativity using the Internet, library, textbook reading requested.

3. Make notes from videos screened in class, powerpoints, discussion and reading

4. Select one or more quotes or concepts and write your thoughts about creativity. .

5. Deconstruct the box you have brought to class

6. Remember to photograph the process of deconstructing and reconstructing steps, from the entire box, to cut out of the box, to the finished 3D outcome of your project.

Step 4: Analysis

1. Decide how you can “get out of the box” by creating a new three-dimensional form from the box. You can work with abstract or representational forms. In any case, when you complete the new design, the original box form should disappear.

2. Draw sketches of at least four different ideas for the new form. Be sure to explore different views of the 3D forms and how it will be exhibited (hanging, wall mounted, on a pedestal, on the floor, etc.) Make notes on your sketches to help explain your ideas, materials to use, etc.

3. From the sketches create small 3D sketch models out of paper/bristol board to explore your design ideas. Photograph the sketch models.

Step 5: Synthesis

1. Gather the materials you will need to deconstruct the box into the new form

2. Select one design or synthesize a couple of ideas into a final form.

3. Keep the sketch models to show during your presentation.

Step 6: Evaluation

1. Go back to the definition of the problem, Step 2, and make sure that the final design follows project requirements. Make adjustments as/if needed.

2. Review blog requirements and make sure all materials are complete.

Step 7. Presentation

1. Be sure that you present your project in a way that explores its best potential to be appreciated as a 3D form. On table, hanging from ceiling, wall, place in the floor, etc.

2. Take photographs of the design as the new form develops. When the final form is finished take photographs from all views. Organize them chronologically and post in on your blog.

Step 8: Implementation

Bring the project finished for class presentation and critique on:

Section 2: Mon Feb. 7^th / Blog posted by Mon Feb 14th

Section 4: Tuesday. Feb. 8^th / Blog posted by Tuesday Feb15h

Section 1: Wed. Feb. 9^th / Blog posted by Wed Feb 16^th

Your Blog posting for Project 1: Anything but the Box” should include:

1. Sketches

2. Photographic Documentation (AT LEAST 5 Steps of the process)

3. Reaction Paper

Your 1 page reaction paper should discuss:

Introduction:

Your favorite quote/ concept / thoughts on creativity (Based in your research on Creativity, textbook reading, videos and class discussions)