Volume Project - The Mask or Head Covering

Week 6 -project #2: The geometric Volume - the mask

We have explored the dynamic construction of volume with geometric shapes and curves… what are the characteristics of volume?

In this project, students will focus on specific qualities of volume using the head as the form in which the volume interacts. The concept of this design will be inspired by masks that create a dynamic shape around the face and head.

Image: www.adrianbruce.com/Symmetry/masks.gif

CONCEPT/DEFINITION:

Artists at the turn of the 20th Century were influenced by African Art and objects from so called Primitive societies. These influences are clearly present in the work of the Futurists, and the Cubists. The movement towards more geometric and structural images was a significant change in the aesthetic practice of Western Art.

We will use this example to create a mask design in which Geometry and Structure are the dominant characteristics.

Students should think of how the face can be redesigned based on the Polyhedrons studied in the previous classes to form their design.

Rather than decoration, consider the qualities of the materials you choose to make the final object as having inherent aesthetic values. Use this in relation to compositional elements in your design. Use three of each:

Material qualities	Compositional qualities
Hard/Soft	Nesting
Reflective	Transition
Transparent	Open and closed
Open/ Closed	Scale
Textured	Repetition
Glossy or matte	Interior and exterior
Colors	Dominant and subdominant

Students will create a final form using elements of models from Week 5. This final form will be made with LIGHT, RIGID and PLANAR materials. In choosing these materials, students should include a transparent material to ‘open’ the volume so that color, and light becomes an element of the form.

Methodology

Concept and Model - students deconstruct their faces using geometric forms.

9/30 In Class - drawing with line to finding geometric forms. Use GS proportions to create segment sizes.

ASSIGNMNENT

Create 3 concept models using the straw and string method.

Research in the sketchbook a mood board that shows inspiration, colors, textures, or forms that influences the project.

IDENTIFY 3 MATERIAL QUALITIES AND 3 COMPOSITIONAL QUALITIES PRESENT IN THE DESIGN.

10/4 From this concept model, a precise planar model is made to use as a template. Recreate the polyhedra from the concept model.

Using the planar model as a template, students begin investigating materials and connections - making samples and exploring technique.

Once the materials and the form is understood, fabrication begins on the final project.

Materials:

Light, planar materials: Plexiglass. Mylar, vellum, balsa wood, etc.

All connections are mechanical.