The Line Becomes – Parabolic Curves

Description

For the first time I experienced to pass from a two dimensions drawing to a three dimensional object. For the first project in Space and Materiality we created a sculpture on wood out of a parabolic curve of our choice. The piece is made with nine sticks of wood (of width: 1/4 inch, long: 16 inches). Accompanying the parabolic curve, I created a base in the shape of a circle. The sculpture pretends to be interactive, therefore the sticks of the sculpture can be moved by the observer as well as the base.

Process

  1. Parabolic drawings:

I started experimenting drawing different parabolic curves.

Parabolic curve 1:

Parabolic curve 2:

Parabolic curve 3:

Parabolic curve 4:

Parabolic curve 5:

Final parabolic curve:

2.  From 2D to 3D:

I began experimenting ways to represent my line drawing to a 3d object. To do so, I cut 24 sticks of wood (of width: 1/4 inch, long: 16 inches) and put them one on top of the other on the shape of the curve that I wanted.

I then, decided to use tape to put all the sticks together.

3. Figuring out what the base would be:

I thought of ways of presenting my piece. I figured it would look interesting to have a circle as the base (such as the tape on the photograph below). I also tried making it stand, but I felt the circle idea was stronger.

4. Putting everything together:

I sanded the wood sticks to make them smoother.

Afterward I screwed holes in each stick. On each stick the place where the hole went was different, I measured it, and then added toothpicks to put together my piece.

5. Creation of the base:

I drew three circles on a piece of wood of my selection with a small circle (of radius 1 inch). I then cut those circles and sand them.

I then connected the three circles in one spot, and delete all the pencil marks.

6. Finishing touches:

I decided to shellack my piece

 

Reflection

For me it was interesting to learn how to pass from a 2d line drawing to a 3d piece. At first it seemed daunting, but it became instinctive with time. It was also exciting for me to work with new materials and techniques.

I am an international student from Venezuela that desires to communicate with the world around me visually. I hope that I can become a part of the global conversation where I can tell stories that are untold. With a background in business and languages, I have experienced how different fields will always connect at some points, and I aspire to reinforce that connection in my work. I believe that there is not one pure aesthetic, and therefore I have chosen to collaborate and learn from those around me to every day grow as an artist.

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