9/17/12 2D Design

Today's Class- Today we started our study of two dimensional art with the most basic mark of all, the point or dot.  We did a portfolio exercise and started a graded project, both making use of dots.

How to make this up-  Everyone was in class today, so you should all know what we did, but here's a reminder if you are interested.

Wallpaper exercise

We started with the wallpaper exercise, where I had students create 3 patterns that included a vertically repeating pattern, made only from dots.  The dots could make geometric patterns, form recognizable images, or whatever you like.  Above is an example from a previous semester.  This was a portfolio exercise, so hold onto it until the end of the semester.

Graded Stipple Drawing Project

We started our first graded project of the semester, a stipple drawing based on a black and white photograph.  This is a type of drawing made with nothing but individual dots of ink, with the number and closeness of the dots creating different levels of value.  Students chose a black and white photograph of a three dimensional subject.  The basic composition was sketched in pencil on paper, and then the exact values are to be reproduced with the dots of ink.  In the above student example, the original photo is on the left, and the drawing is on the right (click to enlarge).  Additional examples and the specific rules of the assignment can be found here.

Homework- The graded stipple drawing project is due at the beginning of class on October 1, 2012.  You must bring the original photo with you that day so I can grade the project.

For next class 9/24/12- We will start our study of line with a few portfolio exercises.  Bring your 18" x 24" pad, pencils, and eraser.  One of the exercises will involve drawing from shoes.  I do not have enough to distribute to everyone, so you are all responsible for having your own to draw from.  (closed shoes are easier to work with- dress shoes, sneakers, boots, etc)  I would suggest that you bring an extra shoe or be prepared to remove one from your own foot.  I'll provide the other subjects.