I was actually excited for the project, it sounded fun even though I had no idea how to achieve it. (Or what to achieve )
So Peter gave us the first step, start with lines on flat surface
This is what I started with, straight line and curve, I connect the alternate ends of each line, to give things a twist. (literally)
And there goes my first study model (pardon the bad picture)
I like how the surface turns from front to the back, it transform from a curvature to a flat plane. And how the straight lines formed a curvature on the side, making it dynamic but soft. I also like how the lines intersects from some of the angles.
ARTIST REFERENCE: Upon some browsing and research, I came across an artist that used this parabolic plane in her work. Barbara Hepworth (Female sculptor during that time? YAAAASSSS)
And I just love love love these.
Barbara Hepworth, Stringed Figure: Curlew (Maquette I), brass and cotton string, 1956. http://www.sothebys.com/en/auctions/ecatalogue/2013/impressionist-modern-art-day-sale-n08988/lot.457.html
Orpheus (Maquette 2) (Version II) 1956, edition 1959 Dame Barbara Hepworth 1903-1975 Presented by the artist 1967 http://www.tate.org.uk/art/work/T00955
The swift lines, soft curves and dynamic form are like dancers. The different lines intersect visually and yet are not too complex and distracting.
LEARNING POINT : I noticed that in her work there is always one part in which the lines or the form contract, and on the other part of the sculpture the lines spread out, this contrast actually makes the form more dynamic.
I let myself went through some trial an error, trying out different things and geting myself familiar with how the string and card would work. Didn’t record all of them but you can see the traces.
DIFFICULTIES: Even though I tried using multiple parabolic planes to make the sculpture more interesting, it always turn out too random or messy. I want to achieve something that looks whole. Something that has harmony, unity and yet has the dynamic quality.
On the side note, as I work on it, the spreading of lines and the curves bring to mind the image of spreading wings, the way the feathers spread out neatly on a bird’s wings.
Aaaaaand with that I will leave the final work to the next post.