Goal/objective:
Apply the methods of learned techniques in paper relief sculpting as an innovative means to
create a unique, sculptural interpretation of a well-known three-dimensional form. Understand
abstraction and reinterpretation.
State Standards
VA.912.S.2.3
Demonstrate visual-thinking skills to process the challenges and execution of a creative
endeavor.
VA.912.S.2.5
Demonstrate use of perceptual, observational, and compositional skills to produce
representational, figurative, or abstract imagery.
VA.912.S.2.6
Incorporate skills, concepts, and media to create images from ideation to resolution.
VA.912.S.3.1
Manipulate materials, techniques, and processes through practice and perseverance to
create a desired result in two- and/or three-dimensional artworks.
VA.912.C.1.7
Analyze challenges and identify solutions for three-dimensional structural problems.
Abstract art seeks to break away from traditional representation of physical objects. “Breaking
down” an object the essence of its form is one way of abstraction.
Process:
1. Choose an image of an existing architectural landmark.
2. Research your subject: when was it made? What was it made for? Who designed it?
What did the small-scale model proposals (before approval of final construction) look
like? Interesting facts about the architecture?
3. Draw your subject in as much detail as you can.
4. “Dissect” your subject on paper: what features make this a landmark? What
characteristics are unique?
5. Make a series of sketches that recombine these unique features into variations of the
original landmark architecture. Add color using color pencils or a chalk shading
technique.
6. Select your most unique sculptural sketch.
7. Use the paper relief sculpting techniques previously learned to create your work in
three dimensions. Apply at least three different sculpting techniques. Remember: the
focus is reinterpretation through abstraction.