Materials: Balsa Wood, 1/8” and 1/4” Thicknesses, Wood Glue, Hot Glue, Box Cutter/X-acto Knife, Cutting Mat, Canary Paper
Dimensions: 8" H x 18" W x 16" D
Objective:
To create a structure that defines space by using linear and planar elements. The aim of the structure is to use the design strategies of Unity and Variety. Correctly applied, this strategy will create internal contour and external contour relationships that create “in-the-round” experience for the viewer. Those relationships are design choices. The inclusion of canary paper is to further the experience of the structure as a three-dimensional object. It also adds a factor of “interior” and “exterior” that must be integrated into the design of the structure.
Strategies:
1. Square cannot be joined directly to one another. They must be connected through other linear elements (no more than 4” in length).
2. Don’t build some thing representational. It may be based on something representational if that helps you make decisions, but only at first. The object is to help reveal design relationships, not make a “baby rabbit.” Don’t get me wrong. I like baby rabbits a lot – but they are made up of more prime relationships.
3. Rotate your structure and build onto it from different positions. This will help you not think of any one part as a “base” or “bottom.” Part of design is not taking things for granted. It’s easy to assume that the structure must rest on a plane…but why not a set of points and/or edges? It’s not a choice until you have options to eliminate!
4. Build your structure out in all three dimensions. Those extensions do not have to be equal or not-equal. Just avoid the dominance of any one “axis” or direction becoming so strong that other elements feel minor or subordinate to it.
5. When applying paper be aware of vantage points that permit you to see into the structure. That visual access into or through the construct is now another choice for you to make. The shape and location of the openings (or closures) can be used just like the exterior and interior contours to draw the viewer into a “in-the-round” spatial experience.
Progress Updates
