Independent drawing assignment

Over break I want you to write up your very own assignment using the template below. Substitute your own wording below each heading. You will give me a printed copy after your review.

Project description:

You will make a drawing that is based on the object you have chosen. The approach may be as literal or non-literal as you choose.

Goals:

To explore and learn the practical and expressive possibilities of varieties of drawing materials. To develop methods for generating ideas and connecting subject to materials and concept.

Materials:

Many materials and techniques are possible.

Requirements:

The drawing has almost limitless parameters. The material, scale, presentation are all entirely dependent upon the artist’s interpretation of the idea map. Consider traditional and non-traditional drawing materials. Your final piece must fit the parameters of a “drawing.” Color is acceptable.

Methods:

Carefully review your mixed media representational drawing of your object.

Develop a series of about a dozen shapes derived from your object. Sketch them out clearly in your sketchbook. These could include geometric shapes found within it, shapes suggested by a movement the object makes, or shapes that this object merely suggests. For example, a pencil sharpener may suggest shapes found in a pencil.These shapes may become the elements used in creating a considered, balanced, linear design. Shapes may be duplicated, enlarged, shrunken, distorted.

Next, refer to your “idea map” and consider it along with the shapes and forms you have just drawn.

Now that you have narrowed down the conceptual possibilities of your object, as well as its physical attributes, start making decisions about what your drawing might look like, what materials might be best to convey the drawing, what the composition might be, what scale you should work in, etc. For instance, if your object were a teddy bear and the overriding theme of your “idea map” was security, then that is what your drawing should convey, regardless of whether you create a literal representation of the object or a more abstracted one.

Execute the drawing.

On critique day, you will be asked to give a brief presentation of your project following an open discussion of it.

Tips:

Be creative and bold!

Make good use of the idea map. Do NOT let your concept get too diffused. The main theme of your concept should be immediately identifiable in your drawing. If the general theme is one of playfulness, but you would like there to be some dark undertones, that’s fine. But we should feel the playfulness first. Think of an illustration of the witch’s house from Hansel and Gretel, or the inside of Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory. The concept should be developed as layers.

Fully explore the possibilities of material. Often material choice is the key to achieving your goals.

Attempt to have ALL aspects of this project driven by your concept. Don’t let anything become haphazard.

Make a museum quality piece, and be ready to present it well. Consider how you will hang it for critique. Leave nothing to chance.