Project 1: SHAPE & SPACE

AT 103

Basic Design I

Fall 2011

Project 2: Shapes & Space

Materials:  
Bristol paper, Black construction paper, black or grey from magazines or newspapers (you can use text as a texture for grays in creating atmospheric perspective, gradations, etc), scissors, x-acto knife, glue.

Shapes and the Illusion of Space

Based on the concept of SHAPES, Positive & Negative, Pictorial & Implied Space,
You will create 3 collage compositions combining open (outlined/negative) shapes and solid (filled/positive) shapes.

A. ABSTRACT COMPOSITIONS

1) Using only circles, create a composition where the circles (or circular forms) interact, overlap and intersect with one another.  In areas where circles come in contact with one another develop a system to fill in those areas so that they become positive spaces. 

2) On a separate piece of paper, repeat the above process using squares or rectangles.

B. SELF- PORTRAIT

 Based on a photograph of yourself, you will develop a high contrast image focusing in the concept of Shape and Space.  Combining circles, ovals, squares, rectangles, triangles, geometric or organic shapes, cut outs or tear off paper, you will create your Self portrait.

While developing your composition, remember we are focusing in the concept of  VISUAL COMMUNICATION. In order to develop a personal understanding of the project as a whole and in particular of how you would develop a creative translation of your own image to present to others:

·       Be aware of how the positive areas (depending how you approach your composition, would be the black or white area) interact with the negative space (white/black paper)

·       Explore the concept of Implied Space in at least one of the 3 compositions.

·       Explore the concept of Figure-Ground reversal in at least one of the 3 compositions.

·       Consider how to approach your composition looks:
Should it look like something recognizable, non-representational or abstract? Would geometric or organic forms would suit better your intended message? Is the composition Static or Dynamic?

Based on these simple guidelines bring your own message across exploring concepts of

·       Shape

·       Positive & Negative Space.

·       Actual and Implied Space

·       Figure-Ground Reversal