CLASS TILE COMPOSITION
For the integrated self-portrait in tile, we were supposed to emulate ourselves with a series of objects onto a 2′ x 2′ plywood tile integrating several woodworking techniques from the wood joinery assignment.
The first step in this process was brainstorming how the tiles would fit together and the “community” aspect the final sculpture would have. When thinking about joining the tiles together, I was thinking of making several 3D mini sculptures in L shapes, made by cutting a 1′ x 1′ square from each tile. In this approach, each person would have been responsible for both their tile piece and the additional square- both being incorporated into a final design, detached from one another. Before our class decided on a final design, we voted and built cardboard models of the four top-voted sculptures and built them out of cardboard- one being Anna + I’s combined L-shape design.
After considering additional elements and work we would each do, we ended up choosing Yuki’s design- a 3D tesselation of sorts that would be layed on the floor, taking advantage of unique angles. Robert made a tile placement plan and projections of what the tile sculpture would look like. We then assembled the sculpture and made a chart of which tile belonged to everyone on the plan. We also made sure to mark the overlap and drilled holes for the screws that would hold together the tile, making sure the mark and label them for an easier time putting them together. Marking the front and top of each tile was crucial for ensuring we were designing at the correct angle and that the integrated components of the tile sat correctly.
Finally, to ensure that my tile would be best prepared to assemble, I marked where the screws would go and made sure to sink the holes with the power drill so the screws could lay flush with the tile when adhering the sculpture together.
MY INDIVIDUAL TILE
With my background in graphic design, I knew I wanted to aesthetically design my tile so it had an overall theme and the required elements (door, drawer, pocket, secret, shelf, and window) seamlessly fit together. Also, not being a big collector of knick-knacks, nor having a collection that fits with my overall idea, I knew I wanted to create a series of objects that represented things or people I treasure in my life.
When it came to designing the overall tile, I found myself drawn to illustrate the depths of my thoughts- the things I think about and truly consume my mind. Being more of an internal portrait, I wasn’t sure how to capture these prominent thoughts and aspirations I had without illustrating so in a metaphor. Thus, my tile became “The Depths of Lexi’s Mind: An Interactive Self Portrait on the Thoughts, Loves, and Life of Lexi O’Neill”.
In considering the design brief’s prompt of interactivity within the elements contained in the drawer/shelf/pocket, I thought about setting an initial composition representing myself and additional objects serving as prompts for users to interact with. These objects would represent personal items, motifs, moments in the aesthetic of the aquatic scene I made, further creating a sense of unity within the piece rather than separate elements that don’t cohesively fit together.
The first step to determining my drawers, doors, and other elements was to make and laser cut the elements that were going to be laser cut. After designing my file and going to the laser lab, I then arranged my composition with the cut plexiglass and basswood.
After setting the composition, I crafted the paper elements with scrap wood using the bandsaw to make the boat drawer and ocean depth door. I first cut the wood and then used the circular sander to smooth out the rough edges and get the curve. I also made sure to drill a hole for the secret to fit into.
Once all the attached elements were made, I began to chisel the wood for the window, making sure it would fit the 1/8 of an inch acrylic while chiseling the needed depth to store the “perfect Lexi” I drown myself trying to be. Some struggles I encountered included accounting for the tough curves, but I made sure to score the edge deeply with an Olfa knife so the chiseled bits would come up easier. I also chiseled the notch for the door hinge and began to install it.
When starting the drawer, I began using a large drill bit to make a hole for the jigsaw to go into to. Then, I used the jigsaw to cut the drawer opening. Upon making the drawer, I realized it needed a case to secure it to make sure that nothing fell out the back, so I cut and assembled a cased large enough for the drawered and attached it to the back of the tile so the contents of the drawer would be secured. When working on the interior components of the drawer, I painted the laser-cut people and life preservers, cut the dowels and sanded/glued them so people could interact with and use the objects.
For some of the final touches, I wrote, inserted, and covered my secret with a 1/4″ dowel. I also drilled 1/4″ into the pained tile for the pegs to go into. When understanding how the overall tile would work, I made a guide for the scene I illustrated, explaining the different depths and how the reflected me, understanding the different pieces and objects throughout, and the mission of how individuals interact with it. Lastly, I made sure to add lettering on the books, ocean depths, drawer, and shelf to tie together the portrait of myself I’m trying to display.
THE FINISHED TILE
The overall tile went beyond my initial thoughts, is more reflective of my deep thoughts + work habits. In responding to the stark juxtaposition of the light topics that save me, I believe this philosophy to be true about myself: I drown myself in my work, my passions, and what I strive for- mostly good, but some flawed and self-destructive (perfectionism). Beyond the seriousness of the depth of my time lies the humorous, bubbly items that put a smile on my face, make me smile, turn my day and moments around while invested or working- whether that be the sweet smell of waffles at night or hearing a cheesy joke. Those smells, words save me from getting lost in the seriousness of my pursuit to fulfill all my potential has to offer, they ground me, keep me afloat on the journey of life.
THE FINISHED TILE SCULPTURE
