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.

Project 2: Serial Planes Studies (Phase B)

AT 104: Basic Design II

Spring 2011

Project 2 : Serial Planes  Studies

Phase B: Foam core 3D constructions

Recognition of a Problem:
 
The purpose of this project is to apply serial planes concepts
and the principles and elements of design to the creation of a
white foam board - 3D form using additive and subtractive methods.

Definition of the Problem:

Create a three-dimensional abstract or representational form that is a minimum of 12”x12”x12” using white foam core board.

The form can be free standing, hanging or mounted on a base (the design of the base/way in which the work would be installed should enhance the created form).
Incorporate repetition and gradation of size and/or shape.
You must include in some area of your design an opening to reveal the interior space construction, and in this way, explore the positive and negative space possibilities within your design.

While thinking/ sketching your design, keep in mind that the edges of the foam core will create lines, the layering of the planes will create a volume with positive and negative space, and natural and artificial light will
create gradation and shadows.
 
Research and Preparation
 
Research three-dimensional art forms and objects that use the concept of serial planes or similar construction with different materials. You may use the internet, books from the library, magazines, newspapers or your own photographs to research imagery.
Be sure to search your own natural and artificial surroundings as well.
We inhabit an everyday environment with hundreds of object/ 3d forms.

 You must collect at least 10 good research images as reference before beginning sketching/constructing your project.
These images should be included in your blog as part of the research process 

Gather together all the supplies you will need to begin the projects in class. Remember to use the cutting mats for easier cuts and better results while cutting foam boards. Have always available several new blades for x-acto knives.

Set up a work area at home where you can spread out your work. If you do not have adequate space at home or in your dorm, work out some schedule to use room 201 using open studio hours.
 
Analysis
 
The analysis of your project will consist of the following steps:

Altered Books – Project 2 [ Phase 1 ]. Your and your classmate’s designs, as well as issues discussed during critique, should be used as reference for the sketching/ designing the second Phase of Serial Planes project.

Sketches : Based on your book project, the research images you have collected and the images shown in class create at least 5 rough sketches.  Of these sketches choose 2 or more of the most interesting designs to develop them further. Reproduce larger more detailed drawings.

Sketch models – Choose the most interesting large sketches to create sketch models.  Compose your models at a scale of about 2x2x2 inches using Bristol board, card- board or foam core. Play with the forms. Build them and then pull them apart to look at other possible designs. Brainstorm!

Synthesis

Synthesize your sketch models into a final sketch model design by incorporating one or more parts of each design (if appropriate) into a final design.

Evaluation

Evaluate the final sketch model design based on the principles and elements of design lectures, class discussion and project requirements.

Make sure your solution meets all the project requirements, especially the minimum size of 12”x12”x12” and the opening that reveals the interior construction.

Presentation

From the final sketch model construct your final design out of the foam core. Calculate the number of shapes you will need and figure out the best way to transfer them to the foam core using the maximum amount foam core (least amount of scrap).

Be sure that the instructor has reviewed your final sketch model design.
(Note: during the final construction process you may find that revisions are necessary or desirable. Be prepared to use extra foam core).
You will be given 2 pieces of white foam board plus a piece for sketching.  You may purchase additional foam board if you wish to develop a larger piece. 

This board may be a color other than white but no more than one additional color may be used. For example: White/black, white/red, white /blue, etc.

Use adhesives that work best for your design. Consider the importance of craftsmanship throughout the construction of your project.
You will need to change knife blades often to keep edges straight and smooth. Use sandpaper or a nail file to smooth rough edges.

Implementation
 
Each student will give a brief oral presentation.
You are to explain how you applied serial planes concepts and the principles and elements of design to your final design. Discuss developments in the design process that you didn’t expect, were troublesome, or unusual. Finally discuss your successes and what you have learned in the process.

Project 2: Serial Planes/ Blog requirements

Phase A: Altered Books:
Sketches (if available) & Photographic Documentation of process

Phase B: White Serial Planes Sculpture/ Object
Sketches: Drawings  and 3D models & Photographic Documentation of  process

Reaction Paper
In this reaction paper, you will write about your experiences in both phases of the project.
Talk about your research on “Serial Planes” structures/ sculptures/buildings,
how did you approach the projects, make reference to Maya Lin’s work,  or other artists that may have inspired you, etc.

Discuss your learning outcomes in each phase of the project, compare your experiences and challenges working with different materials and reflect on the project as whole.

 Critique Deadlines
 
Section 02: Wed. March 9^th
Section 04: Thursday March 10^th
Section 50: Wed. March 9^th

 
Blog to be completed during the Spring break week

Project 2: Serial Planes Studies (Phase A)

AT 104: Basic Design II

Semester: Spring 2011

Project 2:  Serial Planes Studies

 Phase A: Altered Books

 For this project you will be creating sculptural forms out of ordinary paperback books.  When you examine the book you will notice that the pages are laid parallel to one another and are connected by the spine. 

If you bend the book back touching the front to the back covers the book becomes a cylinder.  By altering the pages you can create new forms based on this cylinder. 

Working with the books

To add volume and shape to the book you must use a combination of cutting and folding the pages. 

Folding will give volume, structure and some geometric shape and pattern to the book. 

Cutting will allow for organic shape as well as more complex geometric shapes and patterns to arise. 

To begin, play around with a few pages by cutting and folding them.  Imagine and visualize what would happen if these steps where repeated.  Based on these few experiments use cutting and folding techniques over the entire book.

Explore all the visual elements that the selected book offers in terms of color, lines, texture, value, etc.

No page should be left untouched! 

Your final piece may be symmetrical or asymmetrical, abstract or representational.

It must be presented in the best way that emphasizes the resulting 3D form from altering the selected book: free standing, hanging, wall mounted or on a base, or any other form of installation that you may conceptualize, visualize and present.

Remember to Document the process with Sketches, (2D/3D) and photographically.

This project is due for critique:

Section 02: Monday Feb. 21^st

Section 04: Tuesday Feb. 22^nd

Section 50:  Wednesday Feb. 23^rd

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)

Your personal understanding of creativity and critical thinking and, based on that why you decided to pursue a creative career

About the Project:

How did you approach the assignment' problem?

Talk about Problem solving strategies, concept, material, etc

What have you learn from this project?

Syllabus AT 104 SPRING 2011

AT 104 / Basic Design II

http://basicdesign2spring2011.blogspot.com/

Semester: Spring 2011

Instructor: Cecilia Mandrile

Email: amandrile@newhaven.edu

Office: Gate House # 106

Phone Ext: 7493

Office Hours:

Monday, Tuesdays & Thursdays: 11:20-12:10 am/2:10 -3:00pm

Wednesday: 11:20 -12:10 am / 2:20-4:20 pm

Additional Office Hours by appointment

Class Time:

               Section 2: Mondays & Wednesdays/ 12:15- 2:05 pm

Section 4: Tuesdays & Thursdays/ 12:15 -2:05 am

Section 50: Wednesdays/ 4:30 -8 pm

Classroom: D201

Final Exams

Section 2: Thursday May 12 / 11:00 – 1:00

Section 4: Friday May 6 / 2:00 – 4:00

Section 50: Wednesday May 11/ 4:30 -6:30 pm

  

Course Description:

Basic Design II (AT 104) is a continuation of Basic Design I (AT 103) with concentration on three-dimensional elements of design.

3D Design is an introduction to the basic methods of creating three-dimensional objects.  Emphasis will be placed on understanding form and structure, materials, methods and construction techniques.  This course is an exploration of both non-representational and representational three-dimensional forms through the understanding of design, sculpture and architecture.  This course will focus on the elements of design including form, space, light, shadow, balance, symmetry/asymmetry, mass, gravity, texture, material and scale.

Objectives

·       Students will be introduced to three-dimensional construction techniques and will learn the basic principals of three-dimensional design.

·       Students will learn analytical and problem solving skills while developing class projects.

·       Students will cultivate contextual understanding of Art and Design through their relationship to society, history and culture.

·       Students will be lead to comprehend and communicate their understanding of the design process through practice based and theoretical research, collaborative work and active participation in class critiques.

Class Structure

This is a Lecture and Studio based class. Each project will be introduced with an illustrated lecture, video and demonstration.  Critique of projects assigned will be held during the project development and after projects completion.  Students will work on individual and collaborative projects.

Design Process

For this course we will follow the design process documenting the different stages involved in each project.  This will include theoretical and technical research, sketches and drawings, photographic documentation, test models, and personal writing reflecting on your individual experiences throughout each project.

Each step of the process will be recorded and posted in a blog. 

For this you will have to open a blog for this class and email address to instructor.

Please go to Blogger.com and open a blogspot to be used only for this class.

This space is meant to be a site for personal documentation as well as a forum of discussion.

Your blog must be chronologically organized and updated along each 3D project.  Documentation process will count as 20% of the final grade for each project.

Grading Policy

Class projects will be subject to Continuous assessment.

All projects will be evaluated on the following criteria:

Creativity: concept and execution; design development documentation and presentation.

Each student will receive an Evaluation following each project that will provide a grade for that project.  If you have a problem or concern with your grade, please discuss this with me as there will be opportunities to revise projects and/or perform extra credit projects.

Assigned projects are due on the assigned due date.  Any assignment turned in late will be marked down a FULL letter grade for each class it is late. (For example: A project that earns a “A” and is one class late, will automatically be reduced to a “B”, two classes late a “C”, and so on.)

Deadlines are given for the completion of all projects. The deadline means that all work on the project must be completed and the project must be submitted as specified. Allow sufficient time for the completion of assignments. Keep in mind that all class projects may be revised or reworked after critiques to be submitted for grade revision.

In-Class Projects and documentation folders constitute 90% of your grade

First Project: 15%

Second Project: 25%

Third Project: 25%

Final Project: 25%

Attendance and Class Participation will be worth 10% of your grade.

Attendance to FINAL EXAM is mandatory.

Remember that Final Exam date is different than your regular class time during the semester. Final Exam dates for each section are listed in this syllabus and in course outline. Final project presentation and critique held during Final Exam will constitute 25% of your grade.

Attendance and Class Participation Policy

Due to the nature of the course, your attendance is mandatory. As in other design courses, you are expected to be on time and be prepared to work in class.

If absent from class, you are still responsible for the material covered. Demonstrations and explanations given in lectures and studio sessions may present information which is not accessible through readings and independent research. If you know you will be absent to class, you must contact the instructor in advance.

Critiques provide a forum of discussion. Attendance at all Project’ Critiques is mandatory

You are allowed 2 unexcused absences for the class. A third unexcused absence will result in a drop of one full letter grade for the FINAL GRADE. (e.g.an “A” will drop in a “B”) . 6 unexcused absences will result in a failing grade (F) for the course.

Students arriving after the scheduled beginning time for class and up to 10 minutes late will be considered tardy. Three late = one absence per course. Students arriving more than 30 minutes late will be counted absent.

Marks will be deducted from class participation grade when a student fails to bring the appropriate equipment or does not have prepared assignments for class and critiques.

For further details about attendance and plagiarism policies, please refer to:

www.newhaven.edu/studenthandbook

Required textbook

Launching the Imagination

A comprehensive Guide to Basic Design/ 3^rd Edition

by Mary Stewart

Mc Graw-Hill Humanities, 2008

ISBN-10: 0073526487

Selected chapters’ reading will be assigned for each project.

Further bibliography and web-links related to each project will be provided and/or suggested by instructor.

Supplies List

·       Digital Camera

·       Scissors

·       X-acto knife and blades

·       Cutting mat (self healing)

·       18” metal ruler with cork back, T-square (24” or 36” metal)  45/90  triangle (10”)

·       White/ Carpenter glue

·       Hot glue gun and glue sticks

·       Scotch tape, drafting tape, masking tape

·       Fine grit sand paper or nail files

·       Storage plastic box and plastic bag for carrying projects/works in progress

·       Black sketch markers, drawing pencils

·       Acrylic/ Tempera/ Watercolor and Brushes

·       Sketchbook

·       Tracing paper

·       Cardboard box (Project 1)

·       Old/ unused books to recycle (Project 2/Phase A)

·       White foam core boards 3/16”, color foam core board optional (Project 2/Phase B)

·       White bristol board (project 3)

·       Found Objects/ collected materials to recycle.

Note that you may need to find additional objects/supplies for Final Project and according to the particular material needs of the concept of your designs.

Date

Semester Plan:  Course Outline / AT 104 - SPRING 2011.  Sections 2 & 4

Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 5 Week 6 Week 7 Week 8 Week 9 Week 10 Week 11 Week 12 Week 13 Week 14 Week 15 FINAL EXAMS

Introduction to Class. Syllabus: Goals an objectives of the course Lecture. Project 1 assigned: Outside the Box/ Video: Doris Salcedo Project 1 Outside the Box: working session Project 1 Outside the Box Working session / Critique/ Project and Documentation due/ Reading assignment. Project 2: Serial Planes: Lecture, Introduction and Research Guidelines Video: Maya Lynn Project 2:  Phase I- Altered Books Research, materials, drawings due, Working session Altered Book project. Project 2:  Phase I- Altered Books Working session Project 2 Phase I: Altered Books project due: Critique. Project 2 Phase II: Serial Planes. Introduction, guidelines and Studio Session Week Project 2 Phase II: Serial Planes Studio Session Week Project 2 Due: Serial planes projects and documentation Presentations and Critique Project 3: Polyhedral: Unit Forms & Wall Structures. Research assigned SPRING BREAK Project 3 Phase I: Working Session Week Research due, drawings due, geometry composition study project Project 3 Phase I Polyhedral Due:  Critique Project 3 Phase II. Revision of projects and work sessions Project 3 Phase II. Work session Project 3 Due: Projects and Documentation: Presentations / Critique Introduction to Final Project: Lecture  +Artists Videos: Do Ho Suh- Pepon Osorio and others Final Project: Research, sketches and mixed media experimentation. Group brainstorming. Proposal due Final Projects: Work session and Ongoing project critiques Final Project work sessions and documentation Final Project Critique: Reflection paper and Documentation Due Section 2: Thursday May 12 / 11:00 – 1:00 Section 4: Friday May 6 / 2:00 – 4:00 pm Section 50: Wednesday May 11/ 4:30 -6:30 pm