Project 3: Polyhedral Structures (Phase A)

Polyhedral Masks: Materials Studies

1. Recognition of a Problem: 

The purpose of this project is to apply polyhedral structures using additive methods to create a MASK .

  

2. Definition of a Problem:

• Create a three-dimensional MASK based on polyhedral units.
• It must explore positive and negative space in each unit
• You must apply a color scheme according to the concept of your design
• Your design should include at least 3 different polyhedral forms. Explore rhythm and pattern

Size requirements:

The MASK should be human scale or bigger.

Materials

One of the goals of this assignment is to explore materials. The exploration of alternative materials and combination of media, will lead to a more unique and creative mask.

We have Bristol board, magazines and foam core in the classroom. Also acrylic paint. You are welcome to use them all , but are encourage to research on alternatives materials, such as cardboard, printed or painted paper, translucent materials, etc.

3. Research and Preparation:

·      Research on sculptural masks from different historical periods and cultures: African, Asian, Venetian, Maya, Aztecs, Incas, Native American, contemporary masks by artists….

·      Use white or colored bristol board or another semi-rigid paper that suits the construction method  to make 3D sketches.

4. Analysis

You should  download from http://www.korthalsaltes.com/

At least 5 different polyhedral, print them, cut them out and play with their possibilities.

5.     Synthesis

·      Synthesize your sketch models into a final concept. Keep in mind that the design will continue to develop even as you begin to construct the final form.

·      You don’t need to use the complete polyhedral models, you can combine fractions of each one of them in order to create your own polyhedral structures in the benefit of the expressive aspects of your mask.

6.     Evaluation:

Make sure that your final design meets all of the project requirements.

7.     Presentation

You should present your complete mask at the Critique on:

Section 02:  Wednesday March 30^th

Section 04: Thursday March 31^st

Section 50: Wednesday April 6^th

In your BLOG or FOLDER you should post/ include:

·      Sketches and research images.

·      Photographs of the outcome of PHASE 1 of the project (Various views)

·      1 Paragraph describing your approach in solving the problem

(Explain why you have chosen this kind of polyhedral/s, relationship between them, color scheme applied, etc)

Note: The following illustrations are not polyhedral masks. This is an extract from a Sculptural masks survey from different cultures and made in different materials. 
In your research, study volume, shape, mass and structures as well as the visual, expressive and conceptual aspects in relation to the materials used in each case.