Week 1 – Analysing 2D objects

In the first lesson of 3D foundation, we learnt about analysing 2D objects based on their hierarchy, if its symmetrical vs asymmetrical, negative void vs positive mass, identifying the principal axis of the object, rule of third, and colour dominant, subdominant and subordinate.

Below are some key points that I have understand in the first lesson.

  • Qualities of contrasting shapes.  I learnt that objects with parts consisting of different volumes brings  character to the object itself and no two should have the same measurements. Varying the proportions in your design Makes it interesting.

Dominant; largest volume occupying the object itself.  The most interesting and dramatic in character and has the most visual weight

The subdominant complements the dominant in character. The element that is emphasise as a secondary in the object. the middle ground in your composition.

The subordinate makes the design still more interesting by introducing a third visual element and axis.  The least visual weight. It is not as independent as the dominant or subdominant. It should be contrasting, but sensitive to, the other forms. 

  • symmetrical vs asymmetrical: A comparison between both sides of an object being identical or irregular when folded into half.
  • negative void vs positive mass. Space can be either full or empty. A void is an empty volume, while a mass is a filled volume

 

 

This turtle object of mine that I brought to class is actually a flute. The exterior of the object looks symmetrical, however the holes on the front and back of the flute is asymmetrical. The sizing of the holes and position is different. Take a look at the back of the object, the holes are not placed in a single file. I felt that it is design in such manner because it would help the fingers to grip the object steadier and better.

However the sizing of the holes at the back are similar, perhaps the bottom hole could be bigger and more centralise, and maybe colour coded, to be more visually appealing, proportionate, and easier to identify. 

 

Another thing I like about how this object is design is that it is able to sit still when placed on a flat surface, unlike your regular long and rounded flute. You can see from the sides of the turtle (between the turtle’s legs) , the negative voids suggested a larger surface area the the bottom of the object (turtle flute). This enable better stability for the object to hold still. 

Lastly, I felt that the front side of the turtle object is smartly colour coded. Notice that the dominant colour of the turtle is green ( green being pleasing to the eye) , and the holes on the turtle consist more subordinate warm tone colours that does not steal the spot light of the dominant colour, however, the colour codes holes can be easily spotted, identified by the user. 

The word I picked out from the pandora box is “contrast.” I interpret contrast as a comparison of objects based on their form. For example, the size, structure, length, height, colour, depth. A comparison of objects that can be differentiate with our naked eyes. 
Task:
  • Group the boxes in clusters of 3. Based them on dominant, subdominant and subordinate. (XL,M,XS size)
  • Identify Principle axis of each box 
  • Ensure the principle axis of each box is place perpendicular to each other.
  • Explore at least 2 variations of the word  you have (2 3D sketch models + 2D sketch Analysis)

 

 

1st model For my 1st 3D model, I placed the subdominant and subordinate adjacent towards the edge of the dominant, creating more weight and space on one side of the dominant, which makes the other side of the dominant rather empty. In which creates contrast. 

2nd model For my 2nd 3D model I placed the dominant between the subdominant and subordinate. The dominant acts as a medium to show the contrast the subdominant and subordinate in each sides of the model. The different length of each object should show a contrasting difference against one another. 

 

2 thoughts on “Week 1 – Analysing 2D objects

  1. cherylheng

    Haha. Yes I found your ocarina turtle quite cute and a good 3D object to study especially with the subject of convexity & concavity. You should try to learn how to play it since it’s a musical instrument.

    Hope our discussions on ” Contrast ” yesterday helped to clear up any of your doubts & look forward to review your revised sketch models next lesson. 🙂

  2. cherylheng

    PS: Do try to photograph your 3D Sketch Models in elevation instead of in perspective. (Eg: Front, Back, Side, Top, Bottom) Makes it easier to compare relative proportions & do 2D Sketch Analysis.

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