Here is the link to my portfolio.
Portfolio Link
2
Monthly Archives: December 2012
3 inch cubes
Going back into projects such as the 3 inch cube, I learned how important precision and accuracy really are. My first cube was just under 3 inches on all sides because I cut each piece to exactly three inches and then once I glued and sanded everything the dimensions were a little off. My second iteration of the cube I accounted for blade width as well as sanding and made each piece just over three inches so when I sanded it down to make it smooth it would be accurate. My decision to leave the second cube unstained was due to the natural wood grain and pattern of the long grain to end grain. I think the second cube was more successful in fulfilling the prompt and learning about the machines in shop.
Portfolio
Here is the link to my portfolio.
Documenting work
Throughout the semester, I have neglected photographing my work right after it is complete. I have learned that by doing so, the models deteriorate and collect dust. When I photographed my work, I was not happy with the way the models were portrayed because they were not clean and sturdy looking. I also was not satisfied with the black paper roll that we used as a backdrop because it photographed with a yellowish tint that was distracting from the models. I remade most of my models and used a black fabric sheet and discovered that I’m much happier with the way they turned out. I definitely have learned that photographing work immediately is the way to go.
Rediscovering models
In preparation for our final desk exhibition, I have been going back and redoing models that have deteriorated or were not precise. After remaking a few models I have learned that chipboard is not a durable or long lasting material. The models I remade are much cleaner and sturdier. I also learned about the construction of my models that have deepened my understanding of the material and how the pieces fit together. By remaking my models I think I have obtained a better grasp for design and it’s never ending endeavors.
Portfolio
Creating a portfolio that is cohesive, easy to navigate, organized, and descriptive is really important in documenting your work. I struggled with the ePortfolio website and creating a gallery of some sort that would break the different projects apart. Over the summer we used ePortfolio and for some reason the layout of my summer portfolio and my portfolio now are complete opposites. I think the layout of my portfolio from the summer was much cleaner and separated the projects into their own gallery. My portfolio now opens straight into a list of the images without any galleries or sub-galleries. I think the best solution to this will be to continue my portfolio from the summer so all of my work is together. As soon as I have it up and running I will post the link for feedback!
12″ x 12″ box
We have been tasked with constructing a box or envelope type container to hold our 12″ x 12″ color studies. I contemplated how I wanted to approach this project and decided that I would construct a wooden box because of the durability and longevity of the material. I considered other mediums such as foam core, bristol, and chipboard but ultimately decided that wood would be the best decision for me. The material really does affect the craft of the finished product. To me, this project really demonstrates attention to detail and overall craftsmanship. I chose maple as my wood type because it is a harder would that will not chip as easily as oak and has a unique grain pattern. I struggled with the dimensions because I did not originally connect the dots that the box would have to be slightly larger than 12″ x 12″ in order to hold 12″ x 12″ paper, but I think I have resolved that issue by creating a pattern and lining it with a border. My box is almost complete and I am excited to see how the finished product turns out!
Woodshop
Projects that involved using the woodshop used to be pretty intimidating for me, but recently, I have felt more comfortable using the tools and machines available to us. After our cube exploration in the woodshop, I have gained a greater understanding of the machines and when it is appropriate to use each one. I think the only way to feel more comfortable and gain a stronger understanding of the table saw, sliding table saw, planer, etc. is to go into the shop and use them whether it be on a scrap piece of wood or on a project.