Heartland Community College Liberal Arts and Social Sciences Course Syllabus for Students Course Prefix and Number: ART 103 - 01 Course Title: 3-D Term: Spring 2014 Design: Intro to Sculpture CREDIT HOURS: 3 LECTURE HOURS: 0 LABORATORY HOURS: 6 Days and times the course meets: TR 9-11:50 From this... To this? Introduction: We are about to embark on a journey that started at least 50,000 years ago. We will be investigating language…but not the language of words. Rather, the visual language of art. This may have been the first language known to Homosapiens. By making works of art, you are taking part in a tradition almost as old as thought itself. Like verbal language, visual language includes rules and principals. We can’t speak a language without first learning the words and the words of 3D Design include: line, value, color, texture, plane, volume, mass, space, time, and motion. Other principals we will consider are: unity and variety, rhythm, balance, focal point, and scale. We will also be investigating materials and tools used in the making of sculpture. The variety of materials is limited only by our imaginations: if it exists, we can use it to make sculpture. If it doesn’t exist…invent it! **You MUST check blackboard at least twice a week. This is the only workable method of communication. CATALOG DESCRIPTION: Prerequisite: None. An exploration of design principals as applied to sculptural forms. This course serves as an introduction to sculpture, its processes, safety considerations, and historical background. The fundamental elements of sculptural design are explored through hands-on sculpture projects. Instructor Information: Instructor name: Michael “Mac” McAvoy Phone number to contact instructor: 268-8631 Email:michael.mcavoy@heartland.edu Instructor Website: www.studio407.net Location of instructor’s office: ICN 1305 Instructor’s office hours: MW 7:30-8:30, TR 7:30-9:00 TEXTBOOKS: (optional) Stewart, Mary. Launching the Imagination, Volume 2: Three-Dimensional Design. McGraw-Hill Higher Education. New York, N.Y. 2002 RELATIONSHIP TO ACADEMIC DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS AND TRANSFERABILITY: ART 103 fulfills 3 semester hours of elective credit for the A.A., A.S. or A.A.S. degrees. It Should transfer to most colleges and universities as an elective course. However, since it is not part of the General Education Core Curriculum described in the Illinois Articulation Initiative, students should check with an academic advisor for information about its transferability to other institutions. ART 103 should articulate as the equivalent of the IAI baccalaureate major course ART 908. Refer to the IAI Web page for information as well at www.itransfer.org Beliefs: Academic Discipline: This course introduces students to the materials and techniques of introductory sculpture and three-dimensional design with an emphasis on safety and proper studio procedures. Student Learning: Consistent participation in the course is essential to your success. I plan on creating a classroom environment where we can all learn from each other. Exposure to your classmates’ views and perceptions can serve to enhance your own perceptions. You may very well find that a fellow student is using a technique that would work well for solving a particular problem you are having. Instructor’s Role: I will attempt to guide you through the learning process by initiating dialogues, promoting a non-judgmental atmosphere in which to work, and encouraging creative thought. I will challenge your perceptions of the world and help you to see alternative routs to expression. COURSE OBJECTIVES (Learning Outcomes) Students who successfully complete ART 103 should be able to: Course Outcomes 1. Demonstrate an understanding of the formal and aesthetic issues in threedimensional design and apply this knowledge in a variety of artistic mediums. 2. Organize alternative approaches or solutions and design appropriate strategies to solve problems in 3-D and sculptural designs. 3. Assess strengths and weaknesses of design solutions in individual and group critiques, addressing both aesthetic and technical issues and suggest alternative solutions. 4. Solve a variety of visual art problems individually and in collaboration with others General Education Outcome CO2 5. Present how key art movements have influenced the purpose and direction of sculpture CO1 CT2, PS3 CT4 PS2 COURSE/LAB OUTLINE: may include the following: 1. Drawing with line in space 2. Creating cast shadow 3. Image-making that pulls the viewer around 4. The limited cut-and-fold 5. Cartesian Cubes 6. Research project and presentation 7. Discovering mass 8. Assemblage 9. Group and individual critiques 10. Health and safety in the studio Range of assessment methods Projects in-progress Art Projects Portfolio Review Lab-time observations Sketch Book Projects in-progress Art Projects Portfolio Review Lab-time observations Sketch Book Projects in-progress Art Projects Portfolio Review Lab-time observations Sketch Book Projects in-progress Art Projects Portfolio Review Lab-time observations Classroom presentations and group discussions 11. Others to be announced (if time) METHOD OF EVALUATION (Tests/Exams, Grading System): Student work will be evaluated by the review of 3D design projects. Project points will be based on effort, creativity, and craftsmanship. In general, creativity refers to how visually engaging something is, including scope and depth of concepts, and use of visual elements and principles of design, while craftsmanship refers to how well something is made, including construction methods, structural integrity, and quality of finish. Presentation is very important in any finished artwork. Class participation will count for 1/3 of the final grade and will be based on: proper interaction with instructor and fellow classmates, attention to speaker (instructor or student), open-mindedness, willingness to share, and attendance (you can’t participate if you are not present). Other considerations will also apply. Grading Policy: Final grades will be determined using the following scale: A: 90 – 100% B: 89 – 80% C: 79 – 70% D: 69 – 60% F: Below 59% MIDTERM WITHDRAWAL POLICY You will be withdrawn from this course if you miss three or more classes or complete less than 60% of the coursework by midterm. This is college policy and is nonnegotiable. Participation (or Attendance): Students are expected to attend all classes and participate in the activities each class day. I allow two “freebies”; no excuses necessary (but you’re still responsible for the missed work). A third absence will result in a reduction of your class participation points and a fourth will lower your final grade by one letter. More than four absences will result in your being dropped from the course. Absences due to injury or hospitalization will be handled on a case-by-case basis and may result in an incomplete. Excessive tardiness will also result in a “class participation” point reduction. Three tardies will count as one absence. There is no “communal” experience without you, so please attend! As a participant in this course, you are required to attend at least three hours of open lab each week. The lab monitor will have a sign in/out sheet so be sure to sign it. I will check the sheets from time to time and will tally your hours at the end of the semester. However, it is your responsibility to keep track of your lab hours. Class Participation: Participation in the form of class critiques, in class projects and exercises, discussions, and interaction with the instructor and fellow students will be encouraged. Be prepared for class each day. It is impossible to participate without the required materials. Further, if a homework assignment is given, have it ready at the start of the next class period. An absence will be counted for the student who is not prepared for that day’s work. The class participation grade will be based on: student conduct (see below), open-mindedness, attendance, motivation, effective use of class-time, preparedness, clean up, etc. Incompletes: Negotiated on a case-by-case basis. Extra Credit: In general, I do not allow for extra credit projects. If a student finishes a project early and has sufficient time to complete a second, the effort will be figured into that portfolio’s final grade. It’s not the number of projects executed in an art class, but the amount of time spent practicing and experimenting that will further a student’s capabilities. Make-up of tests and assignments: In general, assignments are due on their due date and at no other time. Allowances may be negotiated for deadlines not met due to illness, etc. Late work will be marked down 10% for each class period it is late. It is the responsibility of the student to make-up missed class work. Incomplete assignments will not be accepted. Make-up assignments tend to be more time intensive than in-class work and may include extra research projects. It is advantageous to attend class if possible. Required Writing and Reading: Reading of appropriate texts will be assigned as needed by the instructor. Student Conduct: Maintaining an atmosphere conducive to learning is paramount. “Constructive” criticism is a must. Kindness and good manners never go unnoticed. Attention to the speaker is not only a form of participation but is simply good etiquette. In a nutshell, treat others as you would have them treat you. Cell-phones must be turned down before entering the classroom. Incoming calls will only be allowed in emergency situations and should be cleared with the instructor prior to class. Non-compliance will result in the reduction of the class participation grade. Please, do not wear headphones in the classroom, it separates you from the classroom environment. Please see me immediately if the music is interfering with your ability to learn. General Information for Students Testing Services (located in Student Commons Building 2001) Testing Services provides a secure testing environment for students who are enrolled in online, hybrid, and other distance learning courses; have a documented disability; or need to take a make-up exam. Testing accommodations for students having documented disabilities must be arranged by the student through Disability Support Services. Testing Services will only administer exams at the request of the instructor. For more information, please call (309) 268-8050. Counseling Services Counseling Services provides confidential and professional counseling for both emergency and personal issues. Services also include referrals to local community resources and support for students on academic probation. For more information, please call (309) 268-8318. Services in Academic Support Center (Raab Road campus) Library The Library provides fast and free access to credible information from a full range of resources including books, online journals, videos, newspapers, online music, class reserves, and interlibrary loan. Individualize research by appointment or come in anytime. See the Library tab in myHeartland, email library@heartland.edu or call (309) 268-8292 for details. Tutoring Services Tutoring Services provides tutoring in various forms at no cost to Heartland students in Normal, Pontiac, and Lincoln. Tutors are available at convenient times throughout the week. Study groups are also available by request. For more information about services available at each location, please call (309) 268-8231 (Normal), (815) 842-6777 (Pontiac), or (217) 735-1731 (Lincoln). Disability Support Services Disability Support Services (DSS) ensures that students with disabilities have equal access to the college’s programs, services and activities through the provision of reasonable accommodations as mandated in Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act. DSS offers a wide range of services to support students with disabilities, including: assistive technology, document conversion services, personnel, classroom and testing accommodations. Students with a documented disability who wish to discuss academic accommodations should call (309) 268-8259 for details. Open Computing Lab The Open Computing Lab provides free computing for HCC students at convenient times throughout the week. The computer lab is staffed by trained Lab Assistants and offers the use of approximately 70 computers, a scanner, a laser printer, and an electric typewriter. Services in Community Commons Building, first floor (Raab Road campus) Academic Advising Academic advisors help students develop a plan of study, review degree/program requirements, discuss transferability of courses, and provide career exploration support. For more information, please call (309) 268-8033. Academic Advising services are also available at the Lincoln and Pontiac sites. Career Services Career Services assist students to determine career goals, develop employability and job search skills and connect with potential employers in preparation for employment and career transitions. Through the Online Career Center at www.collegecentral.com/heartland students can learn about area employment opportunities, prepare and post resumes and find a host of free career-related resources. The job shadow and internship programs offer access to relevant work-based learning opportunities that enhance academic experiences and support students in their career pursuits. For more information, please call (309) 268-8034 or email Career.Services@heartland.edu. Financial Aid Office The Financial Aid Office provides information on programs and types of financial aid available to students. For more information, please call (309) 268-8020. Transcripts (Located in Student Commons Building 1000) Official and unofficial transcripts may be obtained in the Student Records Office. Transcripts may also be obtained at Heartland’s Lincoln and Pontiac sites. Official transcripts must be requested in writing. The form is available online (http://www.heartland.edu/transcripts/index.jsp) or in the Student Records Office. Unofficial transcripts are available to print online through IRIS. Academic Integrity and Plagiarism Academic Integrity Academic integrity is a fundamental principle of collegial life at Heartland Community College and is essential to the credibility of the College’s educational programs. Moreover, because grading may be competitive, students who misrepresent their academic work violate the right of their fellow students. The College, therefore, views any act of academic dishonest as a serious offense requiring disciplinary measures, including course failure, suspension, and even expulsion from the College. In addition, an act of academic dishonesty may have unforeseen effects far beyond any officially imposed penalties. Violations of academic integrity include, but are not limited to cheating, aiding or suborning cheating or other acts of academic dishonesty, plagiarism, misrepresentation of data, falsification of academic records or documents and unauthorized access to computerized academic or administrative records or systems. Definitions of these violations may be found in the college catalog. Plagiarism Plagiarism is the presenting of others’ ideas as if they were your own. When you write a paper, create a project, do a presentation or create anything original, it is assumed that all the work, except for that which is attributed to another author or creator, is your own. Plagiarism is considered a serious academic offense and may take the following forms: Copying word-for-word from another source and not giving that source credit. Paraphrasing the work of another and not giving that source credit. Adopting a particularly apt phrase as your own. Using an image or a copy of an image without crediting its source. Paraphrasing someone else’s line of thinking in the development of a topic as if it were your own. Using another person’s project or another person’s work as if it were your own. [Adapted from the Modem Language Association’s MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers. 7th ed. New York: MLA, 2009:51-61] Note that word-for-word copying is not the only form of plagiarism. The penalties for plagiarism may be severe, ranging from failure on the particular piece of work, failure in the course or expulsion from school in extreme cases. Many plagiarism problems can be remedied by citing the sources of the original work. When in doubt, cite the source according to the style your instructor directs. Usually this is APA or MLA Style. Don’t be daunted by citing sources which are not books. You can cite everything, including pamphlets, maps, cereal boxes, telephone conversations, movies, television shows, Internet and world-wide web sites. Philosophy of Grades The Heartland Community College grading philosophy grows out of our vision of educational excellence. This common philosophy provides a framework for each academic division and instructor as they establish their own individual course grading system, evaluation methods, and course policies using the shared general rubrics for letter grades given below. Letter grades serve as a vehicle to promote meaningful evaluation of student achievement, to inform students of academic progress, and, as necessary, to improve student performance, habits, and practices. Using a letter grade as a prerequisite for subsequent courses means we believe that the grade was assigned through a conscious judgment about a student’s readiness to proceed to more advanced study. At Heartland, students’ academic achievement is measured by their mastery of course objectives and content. We challenge students to meet these recognized standards of achievement and we assign grades based on their success in doing so. Simply stated, we believe that the responsibility for academic achievement rests with the student and that holding students responsible for their learning promotes their academic growth. Letter Grade Rubrics “A” This grade represents consistently outstanding performance that demonstrates superior understanding and skillful use of important course concepts. Performance at this level signifies that the student is extremely well prepared to continue with more advanced study of the subject. “B” This grade represents performance significantly beyond the level necessary to achieve the course objectives. Work is of high quality but not consistently at an outstanding level. Performance at this level signifies that the student is well prepared to continue with more advanced study of the subject. “C” This grade represents an acceptable achievement of the course objectives. Performance at this level signifies that the student is reasonably well prepared to continue with more advanced study of the subject. “D” This grade represents less than adequate performance. It signifies questionable readiness to proceed with more advanced study of the subject. “F” This grade reflects unacceptable performance. The student is not yet ready to proceed with more advanced study of the subject, and must repeat the course successfully to receive credit. Syllabi disclaimer: This syllabus is subject to change at any time at the discretion of the instructor. All typos were intentional (unless they weren’t). Any bad grammar contained herein is the result of years of studying Art, not English. Information regarding plagiarism, academic integrity, and support services may be found at the Heartland Community College website: www.heartland.edu Just a reminder that to access WebCT, IRIS, and your Heartland Student Email, you will need to log into myHeartland, at https://my.heartland.edu. Group Research Project and Presentation Each group will give a short presentation on a sculptural movement or era chosen from the list below, only one group per subject please. The presentation should last no less than 20 minutes and no more than 45. Visual aids in the form of slides or projected textbooks (preferred) will be used. A minimum of three sources must be used, including a maximum of one internet site. There is no written paper component for this assignment. You will turn in a detailed outline, complete with a bibliography and list of images before the presentation begins. Use a copy of your outline or note cards for the presentation in front of the class. Do not, I repeat, do not simply read a paper. That is sooo boring for your audience and will result in a very low grade. Show lots of images! This is a visually oriented class and simply “explaining” and artwork with no image just doesn’t do-it. Be prepared to answer questions about your movement / era, by other students as well as myself. The grade for the presentation will be given to the group, no individual grades will be assigned. The presentation should include: I. Historical context and geographic information (born in…, died in…,studied at…,etc.) II. A detailed discussion of the work produced by this artists (with visual aids) and any historical significance. Did the artists belong to more than one movement? III. Conclusion A sign-up sheet will be posted on the board when appropriate. It will contain the movement / era along with the presentation date. Don’t sign up for the last spot thinking it will give you more time, if you’re like me you’ll just procrastinate and you may have finals in other classes you need to study for. Don’t wait until the last minute to start your research, there’s no worse feeling than standing in front of a group of people twiddling your thumbs and saying “ummmmmm”. No class time will be given for this presentation other than the presentation itself. If you or your partner are absent the day of your presentation, you will not be allowed to make it up without a doctors note or obituary, so choose your partner well. 3D Design Project 1 – Lines in Space Objectives: 1. To move from two dimensions into the third dimension. 2. To increase spatial awareness. 3. To explore the transformation of an everyday object into a piece of art 4. To learn basic construction skills including soldering techniques Materials: Sketchbook and drawing instrument, bare copper wire, appropriate solder and flux, butane torch. NO ALUMINIM WIRE PLEASE, it breaks too easily and cannot be soldered,. wire cutters, needle-nose pliers, masking tape (for taping the sharp ends of wire), tennis shoe. Pay close attention the “gauge” of the wire you purchase. The higher the number, the smaller the diameter. Make sure your copper wire is thick enough to hold a shape. Also, but not required, needle-nose locking pliers or some other clamping device may be helpful during assembly. Strategy: This exercise requires careful observation. Bring a shoe to class; a tennis shoe works well (if you plan to remove a shoe from your foot, please make sure it won’t make our eyes water!). This project employs two types of drawing. The first type will be a contour drawing. Follow the contour of the object in a single, continuous line. Do not shade these drawings nor should you use crosshatch or stipple (dot patterns), only line. Draw the object from every angle; sides, top, and bottom. Finally, draw the object a last time, drawing all sides in a single drawing as if the object were transparent. You will need to refer to the other drawings to extrapolate this final drawing. Make two of these final drawings, one for display, the other for note-making. Look for obvious (or not so obvious) “joints” or places in the line where the wire (see the second step) will need to be cut and joined. Also, look for overlaps and intersections where the wire sculpture can be strengthened with the additional soldering. Circle these areas on one of the drawings. The second type of drawing will be done in 3-dimensional space using the copper wire. Pay careful attention to your sketchbook drawings. Don’t attempt to “fill in” planes or make solid “slabs” of area. In other words, don’t try to “weave” a metallic fabric. Simply draw with the wire as you did using your pencil. The pliers are used to make sharp bends and the cutters to cut the wire where a joint is to be made. For safety reasons, cover (with masking tape) the tips of the wire you are currently working with. It may also be helpful to tape the tips of your fingers. Always solder on the supplied block, never directly on the wood table. It is REQUIRED that all students wear safety goggles at ALL times during this project. Soldering will be demonstrated by your instructor, pay careful attention. You will make two of these drawings-in-space, three if time allows. The first will be considered the learning experience and the second the polished work. You may use the same shoe for both or a different shoe each time. Turn in all attempts, each will represent effort and time spent. This project is worth _15_ points and will be due ______ Vocabulary: Extrapolate – To make an estimate of something unknown on the basis of available data. 3D Design – project 2 – Sculpting in Shadows Objectives: 1. To enhance your understanding of the physical qualities of 3-D art forms. 2. To consider natural and unnatural lighting and the effects of each. 3. To understand how the cast shadow affects the actual piece. Materials: White poster-board, sketchbook, lamps for lighting, cutting utensils Strategy: The shadow cast by a piece of sculpture can, at times, play a significant role in the presentation of the piece. It is also possible that the cast shadow becomes more visually interesting than the sculpture casting it (although this is not required for this project). Using simple, inexpensive poster board, create a freestanding nonobjective or abstracted form. The finished dimensions should not exceed 12 inches in any direction (not including the cast shadow). Using a single light source (provided), create an interesting cast shadow. Consider the light source placement while working. The closer the light source to the ground plane of the sculpture, the longer and lighter the cast shadow will appear (think about sunrise and sunset). Conversely; the higher the light source, the shorter (or smaller) and darker the shadow will appear. Also, will the sculpture cast shadows onto itself or just the ground plane? How do overlapping planes affect the cast shadow? In other words, does one cast shadow block another? Something else to think about: Could this be a model for a larger outdoor sculpture? If so, how would the rotation of the Earth affect the cast shadow? This project is worth _20_ points and will be due __. Vocabulary: Abstract- Forms derived from objects actually observed or experienced and usually involves a simplification and/or rearrangement of the elements to meet the needs of the artist’s expression. Nonobjective – An approach to art in which the visual elements are entirely imaginative and not derived from any existing object. 3D Design Project 3 – The Grandiose Mundane in 3-D (additive sculpture) Objectives: 1. To experience additive sculpture, or the building of an object from scratch 2. To find the inherent beauty in a mass produces object 3. To have the experience of abstracting an existing object 4. To use design skills and practice good craftsmanship Materials: Thin foam core (1/8”) or Bristol Board, hot glue gun and glue, x-acto knife, measuring utensils, sandpaper, sketchbook and pencil. Strategy: In this project we will be using a mass-produced object as our starting point. By dissecting, abstracting, and changing the scale of the form, we will redirect our viewers. For example, if I were to disassemble an old VCR, find a visually interesting mechanical component, rearrange its parts, increase its size by ten-fold, and place it on a pedestal in an art gallery, is it not art? The challenge here is to find an object interesting enough to hold a viewer’s attention while misleading the viewer as to the object’s function. I, myself, find the most interesting part of a long drive is watching the flatbed trucks roll by hauling some enormous gadget. It may be as big as a Buick but still a small component of a really immense contraption; a wind generator or an earthmover. There is an inherent beauty in the things we, as a society, design and build. Begin by collecting several objects of interest. They may be static or they may have moving parts. The object should be small enough to hold in the palm of your hand. Make drawings of the object(s), simplifying and/or rearranging its form. Once a design is chosen, recreate the design by cutting and pasting pieces of Bristol Board or heavy cardboard like the backing of an old drawing pad (please, no corrugated cardboard). Use only one raw material for building, don’t mix and match different kinds or colors of cardboard. I would prefer these sculptures remain white. We will discuss color and finish in the next project. This project is worth _30_ points and will be due _______. 3D Design Project 4 – Additive and Subtractive Organic Sculpture Objectives: 1. To experience the physicality of subtractive sculpture (carving). 2. To create an object that pulls the viewer around the piece and doesn’t have one predominant viewing angle 3. To investigate the effect of negative space on a three-dimensional form. 4. To experiment with organic (non-man-made) imagery. 5. To design an artwork that is balanced physically as well as visually. 6. To apply the basic principles of line and contour, texture, volume and mass to an invented form. Materials: Reference images of microbial objects, scrap wood or other armature materials, Surform file or plane, newspaper, plaster bandages, plaster for mixing, finishing materials. Strategy: Use Google.com images and do a search on “microscopic”. Choose one or several of the images to work from, bring black and white prints to class. This will be a freestanding sculpture; no base is necessary or required. We will begin by making several maquettes using oil clay, using our reference photos for inspiration; do not simply copy the image. I’m asking you to “abstract” the image/object. At least one “closed” negative shape is required. Also consider “open” negative shapes. These will essentially become part of the outer contour of the sculpture. Design your sculpture with the intent to pull the viewer around the piece. When a piece of sculpture has only one interesting side it is considered “frontal” and won’t engage the viewer for any length of time and, more importantly, doesn’t take advantage of the fact that it is a three-dimensional object. Once you have chosen a maquette to reproduce, you will use it as a guide for your sculpture. First we will need to consider the scale of the finished sculpture. Is the maquette intimate or grandiose? Do you want to pull the viewer in close or push them back? The characteristics of the maquette may dictate the answers. The first step in this project will be to create an armature. This will be the skeleton that supports the weight of the piece. Using scrap wood and twisted newspaper (or really anything that will hold a solid shape) create the support system for the piece. When this is completed, use the plaster bandages to begin shaping the form. This will be demonstrated. Before the bandages have completely dried/cured, cover the entire form in loose plaster, making it thick enough to carve into and smooth. This will also be the time you may try to create any surface texture you feel the object requires. These sculptures will not be painted or use color in any way. We want the focus to be on the form (shape, contours, positive and negative shapes), not on color. Please be aware that the successful completion of this project will depend upon consistent use of open-lab hours. As much as 25% of each class period will be used to clean the studio will subtracts significantly from our work time. This project is worth _50_ points and will be due ______. Vocabulary: Subtraction – A sculptural term meaning to carve or cut away material. In subtractive sculpture, no material is added, only taken away. Negative space (or negative shape) – A shape created through the absence of an object or area rather than through the presence of an object or area. Negative shapes can be so important to a composition as to appear as positive shapes. Organic shape – A shape based on forms from the natural world or suggestive of living organisms. Also known as biomorphic shape. 3D Design Project 4 – Additive and Subtractive Organic Sculpture Objectives: 1. To experience the physicality of subtractive sculpture (carving). 2. To create an object that pulls the viewer around the piece and doesn’t have one predominant view. 3. To investigate the effect of negative space on a three-dimensional form. 4. To experiment with organic (non-man-made) imagery. 5. To design an artwork that is balanced physically as well as visually. 6. To learn the effect surface treatment can have on a finished piece. 7. To apply the basic principles of line and contour, color, texture, volume and mass to an invented form. Materials: Block of rigid urethane foam, Surform file or plane, joint compound or other sealing material (see handout), finishing materials. Strategy: This will be a freestanding sculpture; no base is necessary or required. We will begin by making several oil-clay maquettes. Think of these as a sort of threedimensional “doodle”. You may use forms found in nature as inspiration but don’t simply copy them. This sculpture can be nonobjective, meaning taken straight from the imagination, or it may be an abstraction, meaning a simplification or rearrangement of an existing objective form. Other than the initial inspiration, you need not have a specific plan or design. Did you ever make mud or sand sculpture as a kid? Sometimes it is enough to just open your mind and let it happen. You may find that the piece begins to take on its own personality, guiding you through the final modeling processes. At least one “closed” negative shape is required. Also consider “open” negative shapes. These will essentially become part of the outer contour of the sculpture. Design your sculpture with the intent to pull the viewer around the piece. When a piece of sculpture has only one interesting side it is considered “frontal” and won’t engage the viewer for any length of time and, more importantly, doesn’t take advantage of the fact that it is a three-dimensional object. This form should have as few “corners” as possible. Most organic forms have few angles and look as though they were grown rather than constructed. Once you have chosen a maquette to reproduce, you will use it as a guide for your carving. We will need to consider the scale of the final piece before distributing our blocks of rigid urethane foam. Is the maquette intimate or grandiose? Do you want to pull the viewer in close or push them back? The characteristics of the maquette may dictate the answers. The first step in this carving project will be making several drawings. Draw your maquette from all four sides and top and bottom. Next draw a three-dimensional block to enclose each drawing. These drawing will help guide you through the roughing out stage. Roughing out will be done with a chainsaw. Once you have a rough form you will continue the carving process with tools made to carve stone, Surform files, rifflers, etc. This will all be demonstrated. The final step will be to give the form a faux finish. We will discuss this at length in class. Please be aware that the successful completion of this project will depend upon consistent use of open-lab hours. As much as 25% of each class period will be used to clean the studio will subtracts significantly from our work time. This project is worth _50_ points and will be due ______. Vocabulary: Nonobjective - An approach to art in which the visual signs are entirely imaginative and not derived from anything ever seen by the artist. The shapes, their organization, and their treatment by the artist are entirely personalized and consequently not associated by the observer with any previously experienced natural form. Subtraction – A sculptural term meaning to carve or cut away material. In subtractive sculpture, no material is added, only taken away. Negative space (or negative shape) – A shape created through the absence of an object or area rather than through the presence of an object or area. Negative shapes can be so important to a composition as to appear as positive shapes. Organic shape – A shape based on forms from the natural world or suggestive of living organisms. Also known as biomorphic shape. 3D Design Project – Cartesian Cube Objectives: Cartesian Cube 1. To practice accurate measuring, cutting, and assembly. 2. To practice making a well-crafted 3-D form. 3. To practice organizing a task. 4. Problem solving Materials: Foam core, hot glue gun and glue, x-acto knife, measuring utensils, sandpaper, sketchbook and pencil. Strategy: Rene Descartes (pronounced day-cart) (1596-1650) is credited with the convention by which space is described using three mutually perpendicular axes. This convention, referred to as Cartesian space, is the most widely accepted space model used today. The cube, with its six congruent sides and all right angles, is one of the most elegant and enigmatic three-dimensional forms. This project is deceptively simple. You are to build a 6” cube out of foam core with a tolerance of 1/16”. This means all sides of your cube must measure within 1/16” of 6 inches. Craftsmanship is key in this exercise, ragged edges, large gaps at seams, and large globs of glue will be visually distracting and make for a weaker form. Use sandpaper to clean up edges before gluing. Make your foam core cuts with a very sharp blade, making several shallow cuts. It’s also possible to score one side, fold it over the edge of the table, finishing by cutting through the underside. Be very careful when gluing. Hot-glue is very hot and sticks to the skin, allowing it to cause a severe burn. Use caution. Think this is a silly project? That’s cool but check out the artist Tony Smith ;-) Vocabulary: Cartesian space – three-dimensional space: height, width, and depth Enigmatic - mysterious, unknowable This project is worth _20_ points and will be due ______ Open Projects Choose one of the following 3D Design Project – Found Object Sculpture Objectives: 4. To create a previously nonexistent object using found materials 5. To organize design elements into a visually pleasing (or disturbing) composition. 6. To explore the potential of “ready made” or mass produced materials 7. To create an artwork from objects which were originally created for a purpose other than art 8. To solve problems of mechanical joining Materials: Sketchbook and drawing instrument, at least twenty found objects (anything goes). The more objects you collect, the better chance of finding that magic relationship. Have these ready, no class time will be allowed for collection of materials. Strategy: This exercise will require much experimentation. Spend the necessary amount of time outside of class collecting found objects. Organize your objects into a meaningful composition using the principals of balance, rhythm, repetition, emphasis, and negative or positive space. Give much thought to the type of joining that will be required. We will work out these problems in class also. Objects may be manipulated by any means necessary but try to preserve enough of the object(s) to give the work meaning.. Think about joining objects with epoxy, rivets, sewing, soldering, nuts and bolts, screws, etc. We are going to explore the “psychological realm of the human perception of the exterior world”. Using chance and “the dislocation of ordinary things”, create an object that changes or distorts the meaning of the original objects. Here we have a unique opportunity to communicate, through art, highly personal or more global feelings about the world in which we live. An example might be a mantle clock with a sink trap for the pendulum (time down the drain) and switching the minute hand for the second hand (time’s running out or time flies). You will make three separate sculptures, choosing the best one for the critique (but have the others handy. The challenging part of this exercise, believe it or not, will be the acquisition of materials. You are not allowed to do anything illegal or improper, nor are you to kill any living thing. Get to know your garbage day! “Dumpster diving” can be very useful. Look through junk drawers, attics, in the garage, etc. Don’t purchase anything other than joining materials. This project is worth _50_ points and will be due ______. 3D Design Project – Form vs. Function Objectives: 9. To discover, explore, and experiment with elements of design related to the physics of a particular function; the building and flying of a kite. 10. To design and build a working kite that is unique and creative. 11. To research and implement the use of materials appropriate for the form as well as the function. 12. To learn that art is not created in an intellectual vacuum. Immersing yourself in a wide variety of interests and activities can often inspire artistic ideas. 13. To discover that “trial and error” can be very useful, complete success is rarely achieved the first time around. Materials: as always, your sketchbook and drawing instrument. The Sail – Tyvex (by DuPont): extremely strong and light, resistant to tearing and stretching. Available from building centers (?) Other possibilities: sheet plastic, paper, Rip/Stop sail material (if you find this, let me know where), flag material. The Frame – Hardwood dowels, 1/8” – ¼” (spars), Flexible Polyethylene Tubing (for joints) I.D. should equal O.D. of dowel. PVC pipe and fittings may be another possibility for the frame. Anything strong and light. Flying Line and Bridle – Light cotton string, monofilament (fishing line), other(?) Don’t forget some kind of reeling mechanism (even a thick branch would do in a pinch). Towing Rings – Soda-pop pull tabs, key rings (otherwise known as split rings), fishing line swivels (allows kite to rotate without twisting the line). Tools: Ruler, pencil, x-acto, hot glue, white glue (I have), masking tape (please not in final assembly), acrylic paint and brushes, giant felt markers, wire, Crepe paper, sewing kit. AND anything else you think you might need or your particular kite dictates. Strategy: Objects that successfully marry form and function are all around us. Cars, books, desks, bicycles, and even toilets have both a specific function and form. The function dictates the limitations of the form but also leaves room for creativity. A car is a car is a car, but there are literally hundreds of different designs from which to choose. Flat kites, such as the Delta kite or the Diamond kite, are the most common but 3-D kites are more challenging and make more of a spectacle. Think along the lines of the Hargrave Box Kite (15+ MPH winds), The Bell (Alexander Graham) Tetrahedral Kite, a “frameless” kite such as the Parafoil, or a compound kite. Or better yet, think up a completely original design. BUT, keep in mind the function of the kite, which is to fly! Yes, you are going to reinvent the wheel. Assessment: Based on uniqueness and difficulty of design, craftsmanship, appropriate materials (welded steel…not a good idea), use of color (not required but if used should enhance the “form”), and finally…will it fly? The grade of “A” will be given only to those kites that prove air-worthy; the form must function. This project is worth _50_ points and will be due _______. Materials you should gather: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. Hot glue gun and glue Masking tape X-acto knife and extra #11 blades Cardboard box for holding your items Spiral-bound sketchbook, no lines Drawing materials Needle-nose pliers – if handy Folder for storing handouts and syllabus, etc. 3D Design Project – Natural Found Object Sculpture Objectives: 14. To create an ephemeral artwork using natural, found materials 15. To organize design elements onto a visually pleasing (or disturbing) composition. 16. To explore the potential of natural materials 17. To understand the ins and outs of installation type artwork Materials: Sketchbook and drawing instrument, natural found objects (stones, twigs, leaves, cicada shells, etc.). Have these ready, no class time will be allowed for collection of materials. Strategy: This exercise will require much experimentation. Spend the necessary amount of time outside of class collecting found objects. Organize your objects into a meaningful composition using the principals of balance, rhythm, repetition, emphasis, and negative or positive space. Objects may be manipulated by breaking, crushing, burning, or otherwise changed by natural means. No mechanical joining will be allowed. No screws, nuts, bolts, glue, etc should be used in the piece. Some joining may be allowed at the instructor’s discretion, such as lacing with straw or joining two leaves with thorns, etc. No sanding or other types of “machining” will be employed, however you may, for example, scrape rocks with another rock to create a surface or color. Think of it like this; you walk into the woods with nothing but your person, what can you make? Take into account the relationship created in the objects. How do stones relate to leaves, etc. How do they affect each other, visually as well as physically? Also, think about the relationship of the artwork to its environment (the classroom?). Is it possible to change the classroom to suite your artwork (for final presentation only)? For example, a student might spread sand on the floor to create the illusion of environment, taking into account the amount of cleanup necessary. Make drawings of several different designs. Drawings will be important in the recreation of the final artwork and will be critiqued with the final project. You will make three different designs, choosing the best of the three for the final critique. The challenging part of this exercise, believe it or not, will be the acquisition of materials. You are not allowed to do anything illegal or improper, nor are you to kill any living thing. Your ideas may revolve around a certain season, in which case you will have to work with the season we have at hand. Come to me if you have problems and we can talk them out. This project is worth _50_ points and will be due ______. Vocabulary: Ephemeral - ephem.er.al adj [Gk ephemeros lasting a day, daily, fr. epi- + hemera day] (1576) 1: lasting one day only <an ~ fever> 2: lasting a very short time Found Object Sculpture – Three-dimensional artworks created from existing components. These components may be either natural or man-made. Usually, the components have been created to serve a specific purpose such as automobile parts found in a scrap yard, etc. Rhythm – A continuance, a flow, or a feeling of movement achieved by repetition of regulated visual units. Repetition – The use of the same visual element a number of times in the same composition. Repetition may accomplish a dominance of one visual idea, a feeling of harmonious relationship, and/or a rhythmic movement. Emphasis – A focal point or area. A visually dominant component of the artwork. 3D Design Project – Modeled Metamorphosis Objectives: 18. To extrapolate from “what is” to “what could be”. 19. To discover the tactile quality of a plastic modeling material. 20. To learn what it’s like to mold a plastic material into a 3-dimensional image. Materials: Sketchbook and drawing instrument, a package (or more) of white Sculpey, an ordinary household oven with plenty of ventilation. Strategy: This is a modeling project that will cause you to cerebrate profusely. Students will choose two dissimilar objects, for example a school bus and a tree, and “morph” one into the other. Kneed your Sculpey until pliable and “model” the two objects. Use your sketchbook to extrapolate the steps of metamorphosis before modeling them with the Sculpey. Five steps are required for a total of seven sculptures. Keep your models small(ish) OR use your leftover rebar wire to make an armature. An armature is a supportive skeleton onto which you can build your image. It may (or may not) be helpful to create the middle morph step first, filling in the other two steps after. All objects should be approved by me before you begin modeling (it’s not a power thing, I just want to save you from blinding headaches and sleepless nights). So, start by making drawings in your sketchbook whilst I visit with each student individually. Let’s stick with white Sculpey for this project unless otherwise approved by me. No color will be used in this project. This project is worth _50_ points and will be due _______. Vocabulary: Modeling – An additive sculptural process by which a plastic material is formed into an artwork or design. Extrapolate – to make an estimate of something unknown and outside the range of one’s data on the basis of available data. Tactile – of or using the sense of touch. Cerebral – of the brain, intellectual. Cerebrate – to think. 3D Design Project - Casting with Plaster Bandages Objectives: 21. To communicate subject matter through direct casting. 22. To experience the process of casting. 23. To discover the potential of ancient African (and other) masks as a vehicle for communication. Materials: #1 molding plaster, Plaster bandages, Vaseline, scissors, bucket, cold water, plastic tarps, appropriate clothing (rain ponchos work well). Strategy: 1. Decide which body part you will be casting, and why. Are you making a ritual mask? Or a self-portrait mask? Are you casting another body part and for what reason? What will make this art? The artist George Segal believed that when he cast his friends and relatives, the resulting artwork was a “ghost” of the person who once occupied the exact same space as the cast. Pretty cool eh? 2. Cut the bandages into appropriate sizes: large sizes for large areas and small pieces for delicate areas. 3. Arrange your work area so that you won’t be holding a freshly dipped bandage over your pile of unused bandages. Try this order; pile of cut bandages, bowl of cold water, model. Keep plenty of paper towels handy for drying your hands when necessary. 4. Apply liberal amounts of Vaseline to the body part, completely covering (and mashing down) any hair. This includes eyelashes, arm hair, hairline at forehead, etc. Have your assistant inspect the area for any protruding hairs. If the plaster sticks to more than a few hairs, you will be in for a painful (but not normally dangerous) time. 5. If the subject will be the face, use drinking straws in each nostril for air. This isn’t required. I have had my face cast several times without straws. 6. Begin by dipping a piece of bandage in the cold water and applying to the area to be sat. Smooth the plaster in the bandage until you get a nice, consistent patch. But don’t linger too long or the plaster will begin to set. Repeat, overlapping each bandage by about one third the bandages width and smoothing. Continue until the entire area has been covered. Take no breaks until the area is completely finished. 7. If you are casting “in the round”, cast one half of the object and then other half, leaving a very small gap between the two. This way the cast can be easily removed and then joined with more bandages. It is extremely difficult to join cured plaster (plaster cures after a day or so). Joining “dry” plaster is possible by first wetting the dry plaster. Then apply the new bandages. 8. Wait for the plaster to go through it’s chemical process, usually 15-20 minutes after the area is finished. 9. Begin the separation process by slowly moving the skin and bones underneath the cast area. For instance; if your face was cast you may begin the separation by making gentle “faces” as if your nose is itchy and you can’t scratch. 10. Once the cast has been completely removed, you may wash-up. Either in the classroom or in the restroom. 11. If you wish a smoother finish, you may add #1 plaster by smoothing it onto the surface BUT this must be done before the plaster is dry (way before the plaster has cured) or it simply won’t stick. I would advise adding the plaster before you clean yourself up. Adding more plaster will make the cast much heavier and more fragile and I cannot guarantee it will stick. 12. Disposal of plaster: Pour the water from the water bowl into the sinks being very careful not to allow any plaster to pour out. Set the bowl aside until the next class so the leftover plaster can harden. Toss any mishandled or dripped-on plaster pieces into the garbage. Store left over (but good) pieces in plastic bags for later use. 13. If you plan to paint your cast, use artist acrylic paint. I have had the best results by mixing the colors on the plaster surface itself. The plaster should be fully cured before painting (2-3 days). Consider adding props to your finished cast, i.e. clothing or other objects. Look at works by George Segal. **DO NOT pour plaster, liquid or powder, into the sinks! Allow the plaster to settle to the bottom of the container and then pour off the clear water. Discard the remaining plaster in the garbage. It may be necessary to allow the plaster to settle overnight. This project is worth _50_ points and will be due _at finals_. Notes for 3D Design 1. Although your lab fee covers some of what we will need, expect to spend another $75 to $100 depending on your specific needs. I may, from time to time, offer to do the buying in bulk to save you money when possible. I will keep careful track of who has paid and who has not and, of course, I will keep receipts. Plaster would be an example. 2. We must prepare for and discuss projects at least one class in advance. If you miss that class, you will be lost and unprepared when the new project begins. Normally, these discussions will follow class critiques so don’t miss critique days! 3. Cleanup is a must. Other classes use this room. Ceramics students can’t afford to mix our gunk in with their clay. Each class day two students will be “in charge” of cleanup and will be known as the “Cleanup Overlords”. This means they will oversee the cleaning not do the cleaning for others. These two students will, of course, clean their own areas and will not leave until all students have finished. Students wishing to leave for the day must gain approval from one of the cleanup overseers. 4. Don’t cut directly on tabletops. Use a cutting board (supplied). 5. Some of the projects we do might need to be executed more than a single time. This is important for your learning experience. Often, the first time through is the practice-round. Bring what you learned from the first attempt to the second or third and your work will improve. 6. You will be keeping a sketchbook for this class. I prefer to call it a journal since it contains much more than just sketches. You may use this journal for taking inclass notes, making notes about a current project (visual and/or textual), calling your 3D Design teacher a chode, etc. Bring this to class every day. 7. You will be assigned a small storage area in the storage room. Use this area to store your works in progress. You may also store your tools there but neither Heartland Community College nor I can guarantee the safety of anything in your storage area. Once a project is complete and you have received a grade, you must take it home to make room for the next project. I will be doing most of the grading in the storage room so it is paramount that you keep your area clean and free of any unnecessary tools and/or materials. 3-D Design Presentation Sign-Up 1. Cubist / Futurism Sculpture – 3/24, Team:_________________, Jacques Lipchitz, Aleksander Archipenko, Umberto Boccioni 2. Dada & Surrealist Sculpture – 3/29, Team:__________________, Marcel Duchamp, Man Ray, Max Ernst 3. Organic Sculpture – 3/31, Team:__________________________, Brancusi, Hepworth, Moore 4. Kinetic Sculpture – 4/5, Team:____________________________, Calder, Naum Gabo, George Rickey, Laszlo Moholy-Nagy 5. Minimalism – 4/7, Team:_________________________________, Tony Smith, Donald Judd 6. Assemblage – 4/12, Team:________________________________ , Louise Nevelson, John Chamberlain, Richard Stankiewicz 7. Pop Art Sculpture – 4/14, Team:___________________________, Claus Oldenburg, Jasper Johns, George Segal, Edward Kienholtz 8. Environmental Art / Earthworks – 4/19, Team:________________________, Robert Smithson, Christo, Michael Heizer 9. Postmodern Feminist Sculpture – 4/21, Team:________________, Judy Chicago, Miriam Shapiro, Kiki Smith 10.Postmodern American Sculpture – 4/26, Team:_______________, Debra Butterfield, Patrick Zentz (see me), Meniko Grimmer, Duane Hanson, Andrew Goldsworthy, Dale Chihuly Fair Use and Appropriation (or Plagiarism) *Any one of these three are permissible* 1. Image is changed significantly 2. Image is used for parody. For example Duchamp’s She Has a Nice Bottom. 3. Using the image will not displace financial gain of the original artist. For example Stir-Fry Barbie by Tom Forsythe did not hurt Mattel’s profits. *An image becomes [public domain?] 70 years after the artist’s death. But that does not include copyrights imposed by publishers of the image. *Any image made by a federal employee while on duty is automatically public domain. Our tax dollars paid for it. 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