Large Soft Sculpture
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| Viola by N. M. 2014 |
Project Description
Like Claes Oldenberg, build an oversized soft version of an everyday object that is normally hard.In addition to basic craft/fabrication skills, the conceptual idea we will be focusing on is: How shifts in scale and material can transform an object and our relationship to it.
Choose an object to recreate that has interesting overall shape, details to emphasize , and lots of facets/contours. Choose an object that will present an interesting transformation when you shift the scale and material. Objects that work best tend to be hard (metal, plastic, wood), machine-made, and hand-sized.
NO TOYS, DOLLS, OR ANIMALS.
Project requirements
Minimum size 3'x3'x3' ( thats 3 feet by 3 feet by 3 feet! )No glue! Sewn together. (see below for examples of hand stitches)
Design and construction well-planned
Considerations
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
FRIDAY 9/29project 3 critique, followed by drawing/planning session for building patterns and forms to to sewn.
homework:
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. ( in your sketchbook) 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,to determine the scale increase.
use the grid system to increase the scale of your drawings/ patterns (explained in class:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2LJF8OTG3N4
Note: You need at least 6 drawings of your object. Front, Bottom, Sides, Top, Bottom. These should include detailed measurements. Have the multiplier ( the scale increase!) clearly labeled on your drawings.
FRIDAY 10/6
In-class work day
Come prepared to work by bringing your object, detailed drawings, and materials to class (you will need your own sewing needles, pins, fabric, and thread).
In-class Demonstrations: Adding text and fine details to your project.
Note: Needles, pins, and thread can be purchased, or borrowed from family. Fabric can be recycled from old clothes, sheets, towels, etc. Please do not spend a lot of money on materials. Be resourceful.
In-class Demonstrations: Basic hand-seeing and pattern-making. You will have the rest of the class to work. You will be graded on preparedness, time-management and class participation for this day.
Homework
Work on project. When you return to class on 10/13 , project must be at least ½ to ¾ done. Pattern should be complete and construction should be well under way. Grade will be assessed on progress at start of class: 1/2 done = B, 3/4 done = A. Less than 1/2 complete = C, or less.
FRIDAY 10/13
FINAL In-class work day
Bring everything you need for working in class. You must be at least 1/2 way to 3/4 finished with your project.
10/20th: Final Critique
Critique will begin promptly at beginning of class. Please prepare the room for critique as soon as you get to class. We will use a white backdrop for shooting, and set the tables up family-style. After Critique class time will be devoted to being the next project.
Rubric
The final project grade holds double weight and will be assessed on:40% Craftsmanship- cutting, sewing, durability,
30% Concept/Creativity- transformation of your object due to material choices and scale.
30% Elements of Design- color, texture, line, form, value, detail
See the following Claes Oldenburg Work for inspiration. Look for other artists who work with shifts in scale and material in their practice. Be prepared to talk about this in class.
