Project Description
Like Claes Oldenberg, you will create a soft version of an everyday object that is normally hard. The transformation (via scale and material) of an everyday object changes our relationship to both the new work created by the artist, and to the original. With this in mind, choose an object that has interesting contours, and that will present an interesting transformation. Things that work best tend to be hard (like metal, plastic, wood) and hand-sized.
Please Note: No cell phones, game systems, dolls, or figurines.
Project requirements
Minimum size 3'x3'x3'No glue!
Design and construction well-planned
Considerations
What will the scale be? What does that say? (Enlarged, Shrunk, or 1:1)What are your material choices? (textures, patterns, prints, color, flexibility, etc)
How will it be filled/stuffed? (packing peanuts, feathers, fluff, etc)
How will you deal with surface details? (You can finish the sculpture however you want, by adding things to the surface, using different materials, buttons, painting, etc.)
Schedule
10/24: Homework (to be worked on over the week, and turned in on 10/31)1. Collect materials you will use and bring them to class. You will need fabric (any kind, thick or thin, old or new), stuffing (old pillow, packing peanuts, crumpled newspaper, shredded paper), needles and thread.
2. Detailed drawings of the object you will create. Study and draw all sides of the object. Think about the planes and contours that make up the form. You must have detailed measurements of your object, and must determine the multiplier (this is the number you multiply by to increase the scale of the object).
Due at beginning of class on 10/31 for a grade.
10/31: In-class work day
Come prepared to work by bringing your drawings and materials to class (sewing needles, pins, fabric, thread, etc).
We will teach you how to sew by hand, and also using machines. You will have two in-class work days. You will be graded on preparedness, time-management and class participation for these days.
Homework
Work on project. When you return to class on It must be at least ½ to ¾ done. You will be graded on this. Work on projects through the week, and send email to Mr. K or Mr. L for feedback.
11/7: In-class work day
Bring everything you need for working in class. You must be at least 1/2 way done. (This deadline counts towards your time-management grade). Today we will talk about adding text and fine details to your project.
11/14: Final Critique
Critique will begin promptly at beginning of class.
Rubric
You will be assessed on your craftsmanship, attention to detail, the transformation of your object due to material choices and scale, time-management, and creativity. Time-management grade is taken from your homework assignments and in-class work days.Last Year's projects
2011's projects
2010's projects
2008's projects
Upside Down City
Ice Bag
Surface and details on soft sculpture
Christian Holstadt "The Road to Hell is Paved (Best Buy)
The Road to Hell is Paved (Whole Foods)
Christian Holstad
Defined Thorough Deflation and Limits of Exposure
2004 Mixed Media: Cashmere coat, tie, white shirt, leather glove, terry cloth, polyester, cotton, vintage millinery trimmings, vintage satin glove, champagne glass, men's suiting and vintage party dress
Dimensions variable
Description of Christian's work:
Two stuffed snakes, a dark male and his floral female mate, lay entwined on the gallery floor clutching a bouquet of microphones. This hand-sewn, soft sculpture, typical of Holstad's interest in traditional forms of craftsmanship, invites us to reconsider culturally prescribed notions of gender, domesticity, and high and low art.
Ideas for how to add detail to your soft sculpture:
