Shop

On Tuesday we focused on portrait drawing. We began by practising our drawing skills in pairs, using a progression of techniques including continuous line drawing and drawing without looking at the paper, which taught us the importance of looking at the subject rather than drawing from memory. We then discussed the best ways to approach the public to ask them to be a subject for our drawing activities. Once we had established the best way, we went off and got drawing. It was interesting to see the reactions of the public, and I thought that they wouldn’t want to take part, but the majority of people that we asked were more than happy to help.

On Wednesday we looked at lo-tech projection methods, which included using an OHP, slide projector, and Halogen lights to create silhouettes around the shop space. First, we went off to find a small object that we would be able to shine light through using the slide projector. The objects had to be thin enough to fit into the slides, so I chose a till receipt. I cut it down to size and placed it into the projector. It was quite simple to use, and it resulted in an interesting pattern on the wall. Other objects that were used included some bubble wrap, a leaf, a fly and a piece of plastic packaging. These ordinary objects were much more interesting when enlarged and projected onto the different surfaces that made up the shop.

Our next task was to get into small groups and distribute the tasks that had been given to us within the groups. My task was to make a stencil by drawing a small section of the shop, and to shine a light through it to project it. I chose to draw a simplified version of the stairs on the lower floor, and projected it onto the side of the stairs using the OHP. It was interesting to see such a simple shape being projected onto a surface and making an interesting effect.

Some other pieces that were made included a stencil of an area of wood that was then projected onto a wooden surface. Also a series of exit signs hung from the ceiling that pointed in every direction, and moved as the halogen light was rotated around the signs. Another piece was a collection of light switch stencils that had been hung from a hole in the wall, which made shadows underneath. I think that we managed to make some impressive pieces using only basic materials and machines.

Year 12 BTEC National Diploma Art and Design Student