MODEL MAKING

This has been an interesting course as it encouraged me to think beyond the usual 2D representations of ideas into a spatial experience. We were required to read a number of extracts from design theorists and extend our interpretation of their ideas into a 3D model. 'The Fold' by Gilles Deleuze resonated with me the most, as I am interested in the idea that our world is not made up of separate parts but rather one, connected form continuously folding and unfolding in different directions.

The first model is based on the idea of multiple folds making up a whole. It would have been better to create it all out of one piece of card, but I am pleased with the overall effect. I felt it was important to include the A3 base in the model so there is interplay between the positive and negative space and use of light and shadows.

 


For the second model we were required to explore a part of Sydney's CBD and develop a response to our experience, through a 2D collage, text and ultimately model. My main reaction was the sense of layering and revealing and concealing of views as I walked down Hunter Street. My chosen found material was semi-opaque plastic containers which lent themselves to the notion of layering and gradual concealment. I cut into the base to try and emulate the sense of perspective I felt when looking up at the buildings, and the labyrinth the streets produce. I could have incorporated the textured playdoh more and this was the weakness of the scheme.

The third and final model was an investigation into the use of balsa wood as a modelling material. We were required to investigate and test a number of joinery techniques and means of using balsa in innovative ways.
My chosen word was 'Peace' and from that I looked into the definition of peace both texturally and through imagery. I decided to use the Ying-Yang as my representation of 'Peace' as to me it meant disparate parts joined together in harmony to create a whole. This related well both to my understanding of the 'The Fold' and to the joinery techniques of balsa, and this became a central theme to my model. I treated my poster as a record of this thought process and a reflection on my understanding.
My model was designed to celebrate timber joinery and the production of a whole from multiple pieces. I deliberately set myself the challenge of not using any glue, only joinery techniques to hole the whole model together. I wanted the base to reflect back the arch, as a mirror would, in the theme of the 'Ying-Yang', positive to negative. This final model was a good review to my journey of the workshop, as it incorporated all that I had learnt from the past weeks. I very much enjoyed the chance to express my design ideas in a spatial sense.

FLUID THOUGHTS TO ACTION

In this workshop I developed my freehand drawing and painting skills using charcoal and ink. Using creative methods we were encouraged to use the materials to express alternative perspectives and ways of exploring spatial environments.

We started slowly, using charcoal to depict objects from different vantage points and the way motion can be suggested in a 2D composition. The next week we learnt how to stretch watercolour paper and use ink in a variety of methods. This was a real learning experience for me as I am not familiar with the medium and struggled initially controlling the ink. Through practice and homework a home I began to understand how to use the ink effectively.

We then had a field trip to the Museum of Sydney, and completed a number of sketches with charcoal and ink. Using these as inspiration I produced a final work which was designed to incorporate all the skills I had practiced in the past weeks of the workshop. It incorporates movement, through the change of one position around one of the rectangular pillars in the forecourt, and has an ink base and charcoal layer over the top to enhance contrast and fluidity of the superimposed images.

This is the work of which I am most proud as it is a good resolution to my experience of the workshop. I will definitely be able to use the skills from this workshop in future.