3D Foundations Wire Self Portrait Project | Bay School | Spring 2011

We looked at the work of Alexander Calder ( http://www.npg.si.edu/exhibit/calder/ )and talked about how he used the elements of design to achieve expressive qualities in his portraits. Students were then to focus on 2 elements of design in completing their self portrait wire sculpture.

 

We also discussed portraits and proportions of the face as well as details to note in drawing facial features. Students then completed gesture drawings and continuous line self portrait drawings as an initial investigation for the final wire sculpture portrait.

 

Some of the goals for this project included demonstrating an economy of materials usage by efficiently using the wire to make connections and create features & form. 

 

We talked about form and function, and the fact that the connections have a functional aspect but also play a formal (aesthetic) role, so the connections should be well thought out in terms of how they support the piece in addition to adding visual interest.