Image Deconstruction

Next surface project: start with a small object (I chose a bike light), draw contour line drawings of the object from every angle possible, focusing on variety and scale change. Then cut the page of sketches into pieces, re-arrange it, and put it back together to form a new drawing. The re-draw the new drawing in an abstract way so that there are no identifiable traces of the original object.

Fiber Crafts

My project class this semester (like my short photography class last semester) finished up last week. We had just one project in the class. The assignment was to create a self-portrait using at least 3 fabrics, a found object, and using hand stitching. I decided to try and portray communication because I have a heavy interest in it and it is universal to all beings. I have centered projects around this idea recently...apparently it's on my mind! Communication-whether through body language, words, or actions-is the way we function; it's what holds us together. So! I made a "two cans and a string" that we played with when we were kids but I used fabric and paper as materials. I ripped up some small paper cups and sewed the pieces together to make a bigger paper cup. But then I covered the cups in soaked and wrinkled paper (from my UNIV 111 textbook, to be specific) so you can no longer see the sewing underneath. I then braided strips of cloth and twisted the braids together. After attaching the cups to the braids on each end, I twisted and sewed a few strips of the textbook into the strands of cloth.

I like the textures of the final product and the general idea behind it but I don't think it turned out as successfully as it could have. The braids in the middle should have been longer, for one. I'm not totally bummed about the project though because I discovered some new textures and techniques I can use in future projects.

Fifty (64) Characters

For my next Surface Research assignment I had to create a set of 50 abstract characters or forms employing unity and variety; along with repetition and varied repetition. I decided to make 64 forms so that when I displayed them together they would form a square. Each square is 6"x6" making a 4'x4' square for the final product. My object was to put the forms together in a way that forces the brain to connect lines and make shapes. Some areas appear white on black, others appear black on white. Although the final product is not terribly interesting or inspiring, this was a fun and relaxing project. I think it's fun to let your mind try and piece together the shapes.

Self Portrait

My next assignment for my Time Studio class was to make a video self-portrait. It could be a literal self-portrait or a description of some part of your life, interests, etc. I decided to show one part of my life that not everyone knows about...I am an insomniac! Whee! No, not whee. Since I can remember I have had trouble falling asleep. In high school it usually took me about an hour or two to fall asleep. Now in college, it can take up to 5 or 6 hours and sometimes I never fall asleep at all. Thankfully I have discovered the magic of Melatonin (supplement of the naturally occurring chemical in your brain that promotes rest and relaxation). But without that little pill before bed, sleeping can be one of the most stressful parts of my day, very unfortunately. I tried to convey the feeling of insomnia in my video.

Elevator Ride

        For my second Time Studio project I had to take a 1 minute continuous, unedited video. I live in a 17-story dorm this year so I ride the elevator all the time. It's SO interesting to see how people behave in an elevator. Think about it. In an elevator you can't call anyone, go anywhere, or look at anything so you are forced to either interact with other people in the elevator or remain silent and stand awkwardly until you reach your floor. Every now and then you can catch a funny conversation but most people pretend they are texting someone to avoid feeling awkward. HELLO you're in a metal box with no service, you're not fooling anyone!
        Anyway, to get to the point, for my one minute long shot I decided to carry my video camera with me in the elevator for a few days and record every ride. After about 3 days worth of riding up and down not recording anything funny or strange I finally got one.
        I was really surprised that during those 3 days, no one noticed that I was holding a video camera pointed at their face with the record light on...watch out people! Those not-so-hidden cameras will get you every time!
                                    
                                                  Turn up the volume, it's a little quiet!