STUDIO ART DEPARTMENT

THREE-DIMENSIONAL DESIGN                               Professor Ann Bavar

Course Description
Three-Dimensional Design is a foundations course suitable for the beginner or advanced student.  The course explores design as a process in structuring both illusory and real space, using a variety of materials such as: mat board, clay, wire mesh, paper, plaster, wood, and found objects.

Learning Objectives of Three-Dimensional Design

Conforming to the Institutional Learning Objective Knowledge and Skills in the Discipline the student will learn the four primary sculptural techniques, modeling, carving, construction and casting.

  1. The student will achieve knowledge of formal language in terms of 3-Dimensional art.
  2. The student will achieve technical competency and aesthetic judgment in 3-Dimensional art.
  3. The student will achieve the ability to problem-solve and verbally communicate constructive criticism.
  4. The student will learn how to use museums and galleries as a tool for creating art.

In the foundation studio, students often need parameters and limitations to get started.  Project sequences will be developed that move from the physical to the physical/visual to the physical/visual/conceptual.  Therefore, the course consists of structured problems or projects, which merge with individual, personal consciousness to form a new imagery and figuration. Class critiques will take place at the completion of each project.  Although emphasis is on investigation of juxtapositions of non-objective forms, one realistic, modeling assignment is included.  Be aware that incorporating metaphor into projects will help to further expand your thinking.

Course Requirements

Completion of all projects (approx. 6-8)
Complete note/sketchbook (including sculpture clip file)
Papers – Two sculpture critiques (one typed page each)
2 Compulsory field and/or gallery trips
Class attendance
Participation in class critiques
Attendance at Art Department functions, including Artist’s Receptions

Grades

Final grades will reflect individual skill development and growth, cumulative efforts in the course projects, and general professional attitude.  Attendance will be reflected in grading. In excess of 2 unexcused absences will lower the final grade.

Projects = 75%

Attendance, Participation, Trips = 25%
Note on Class Attendance
Class attendance and participation is essential.  While creativity tends to have an individualized and private origin, the group setting can be a provocative environment for the expression of creative design.  Informal reviews and peer discussions are encouraged during and after scheduled class meetings.

Examples of Studio Projects

Clay Proportion/Line, Volume, Plane - Combine three rectilinear shapes in a harmonious manner so that the individual elements retain their identity of surface, extension, and volume yet contributes to the vitality of the whole.  Show thumbnail sketches of ten juxtapositions. FORMAL LANGUAGE OF 3-D ART
Mat Board Construct a design based on the negative spaces of the previous project. CONSTRUCTION
Balsa Wood  Construct a 6” cube. Using more balsa or other materials, personalize and design a sculpture. CONSTRUCTION
Mixed Media Create either head or footgear out of chicken wire and paper mache which will reflect an aspect of your personality.
Mixed Media  Create a structure as tall as you are using non traditional materials.
Clay Model a life-size head (self portrait). MODELING
Plaster Using a clay mold, cast a plaster form.  Chisels and files will aid in creating your sculpture/object in space. CASTING and CARVING
Mold-making Make a plaster mold and cast, in wax, multiples of a found object. CASTING

Supply List
Bound notebook 8 ˝” x 11” (unlined paper)
18” metal ruler with cork backing
Metal T-square
Pencils
Erasers
Scissors
Masking tape
Clay tools
Heavy duty utility knife

Disability Statement
If you believe that you have a disability that may warrant accommodations in this class, I urge you to notify me immediately so that together we can work to develop methods of addressing needed accommodations in this class. You must also contact the Academic Dean’s office.

 Academic Misconduct
Plagiarism, cheating and other forms of academic dishonesty are prohibited. Students guilty of academic mis­conduct either directly or indirectly through participation or assistance, are immediately responsible to the in­structor of the class. In addition to other possible disciplinary sanctions that may be imposed through the regular instructional procedures as a result of academic misconduct, the instructor has the authority to assign an F or a zero in the course.

Office Hours – Room 208, ext. 5331/5247   Home: 914-967-1038  bavara@mville.edu

Wednesday: 10:00-12:00, 4:00-5:00 and by appointment.

 


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