From 2D to 3D … and back again

From 2D to 3D … and back againBackground to the task / project:

Some strategies I use for developing breadth and variety within my units of work. They focus on the PROCESS of making, rather than the PRODUCT.

These tasks need prior learning, so are ideal to use midway through an extended project, for IB, A-level or (I)GCSE students.

Before attempting tasks like these, students need to have a good amount of experience with a particular theme or project. They will have collected, explored and used a range of source material in their own drawings, paintings and other artworks.

From 2D to 3D … and back againPROCESS to PRODUCT : DECISION-MAKING

• Make students aware of the decision-making process and their own choices

• Students discover how each action feeds into the next

• Students focus on their responses to challenges and dealing with the results

• Remove fear / do not acknowledge fear• Remove time for drafting and design -

replace with process and progress• Provide limitations, rules and surprises

to provoke a response• Move beyond students’ familiar

methods of working and the usual solutions

From 2D to 3D … and back againPROCESS to PRODUCT : CARD CONSTRUCTIONSthings to consider:• Prior learning / resources• Start BIG: shapes need to be larger and bolder

than students will think they need• NO drawing tools: students draw with scissors

and knife• Cut-outs: openings through the sculpture.• Base: 'lift' off the floor• Use offcuts creatively• Lack of symmetry to create energy• ROTATE constantly• Use scoring, pleating etc to create variety• Save smaller details for last - or avoid

altogether

From 2D to 3D … and back again

PROCESS to PRODUCT : REFINING

• After construction, the students refine the surface and structure of their piece using gumstrip

• This adds strength and refinement to the piece

• Painting – use a flat layer of silver or gold acrylic and allow to dry

• Final layer is black acrylic, applied wet then rubbed back with a wet rag. This creates a metallic finish.

From 2D to 3D … and back again

Taking it back to 2D … continuing the process.

From 2D to 3D … and back againLarge mixed-media pieces on corrugated card – students start with a brush-and-ink drawing, then develop with acrylics, collage, text, newspaper, tape etc. Works very well over a full-day session or workshop.