ART06109 2024 3D Studies 1: Processes and Materiality
The primary aim of this module is to enable the student to establish basic visual fluency via three-dimensional building and sculpting techniques from various materials. During this semester the emphasis will be on developing ideas through exploration and experimenting with sculptural media. The objective is to introduce students to basic building and sculpture techniques by exploring clay, biomaterials, and various building materials. 3D construction methods using found objects and mixed media, installation and modes of display as well as material creation will also form part of the methods used. The classes will also include research and discussion about contemporary artists who work with these media and processes. All the research, explorations and developed ideas will be kept in a visual diary and will form part of the continuous assessment. The module aims to develop a good vocabulary and understanding of basic sculpture-making techniques and the development of techniques, materials, concepts and experimental work.
Learning Outcomes
On completion of this module the learner will/should be able to;
Recognize the value of broad and well-informed research, ensuring they have referenced relevant material, contemporary artwork and techniques relating to their works within a Fine Art context.
Exemplifying and explore through a set of basic techniques and processes involved in the manipulation of sculptural and 3D materials and a variety of building methodologies used as a means of three-dimensional creative expression.
Exercise efficient practices when handling all materials, paying attention to issues of health and safety when working in the Sculpture + 3D Studio, with all materials, tools and equipment for construction and preparation.
Give evidence of an understanding in basic building, development and application of materials used and skills in relation to techniques.
Show development in individual qualities and creative exploration within this subject matter, via the Visual Diary, research, samples and exploratory work.
Teaching and Learning Strategies
Each semester the student is provided with a project theme to which each student builds their ongoing research. At the relevant parts of the semester initial technical information is provided via a series of demonstrations, information hand-outs and material explorations. Students are asked to maintain a Visual Diary/ Notebook for this specific module and a series of exploratory maquettes as they develop their ideas. Weekly tutorials support the students’ ongoing research and experimentation and ensure they are responding productively to the designated project brief. Collective discussions and group critiques offer further support for the students learning outcomes.
The Visiting Artist Series, International Trip, Exhibition Visits and Field Trips all provide invaluable exposure to a variety of professional platforms during the academic year.
Module Assessment Strategies
The student’s progress is monitored throughout the semester via informal weekly tutorials and forms part of the continuous assessment. Students present their ‘work in progress’ for a Mid Term Review, usually six weeks into the semester. A final assessment takes place at the end of the semester, the student display their finished work in an appropriate format for assessment.
Repeat Assessments
Students will be given repeat project briefs which will be issued at the end of the academic stage and submitted in early autumn.
Indicative Syllabus
Visual Research is an integral aspect of the student’s engagement and will provide many solutions to their material and technical enquiry. Students are asked to select a theme which help them begin to develop their personal interpretations and concepts. They are encouraged to appreciate the value of broad and well-informed research, which feeds all disciplines. Their investigations should explore both technical and creative sources.
Clay Preparation and Introductory Hand-building Techniques: Students are instructed in the basic preparation of clay before use and made aware of potential issues and pitfalls. They learn a set range of basic hand-building techniques such as Pinching, Coiling, Slab-building, Slumping on forms as well as some throwing exploration. Joining, manipulating, and sculpting will help develop a sensitivity and familiarity with the material and methods. Exploring the origins, behaviours, possibilities and character of various clay types will create a foundation of knowledge in relation to working with clay for other semesters.
Bio Materials:
During this phase of the module the students as a group as well as individually explore a range of bio-materials and will explore these from the sourcing and preparation to the modifying and manipulating. These materials will vary greatly (due to availability and related processing). The ethical and technical research required as well as the experimental nature of this work and possibilities in relation to contemporary art practices will form the core of this portion of the module.
Building Techniques and Materials:
The last part of the module opens out to an even wider selection of materials used to make three-dimensional work. Through methods of mould making, soft and hard materials, found and repurposed objects techniques and options are explored. Students are asked, after a series of exploration and research done to source materials and develop work and a building technique for the material and theme.
3D Studio Health + Safety: The student is introduced to a variety of equipment in the 3D Studio and made aware of their specialist functions and are instructed in the safe use and basic maintenance of all equipment. They are instructed best cleaning and environmental practices and the safe handling of their materials and are briefed on all Health & Safety protocols relevant to functioning in the 3D Studio.
Coursework & Assessment Breakdown
Coursework Assessment
Title | Type | Form | Percent | Week | Learning Outcomes Assessed | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Presentation of a body of work | Practical | Assessment | 100 % | End of Semester | 1,2,3,4,5 |
Full Time Mode Workload
Type | Location | Description | Hours | Frequency | Avg Workload |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Workshop / Seminar | Ceramics Studio | 3D 1: Processes and Materiality | 6 | Weekly | 6.00 |
Independent Learning | Not Specified | Independent learning | 2 | Weekly | 2.00 |
Required & Recommended Book List
2018-04-05 Sculpting and Handbuilding Herbert Press
ISBN 1912217511 ISBN-13 9781912217519
Handbuilding with clay offers a unique opportunity to experiment, requiring few tools, and allowing intuition and imagination to come to the fore. In this overview of a fast-developing practice, artist Claire Loder explains time-honoured methods of handbuilding, as well as introducing the fascinating new approaches of contemporary ceramicists.The basic techniques, from coiling and pinching to working with slabs, are explained with practical instructions and helpful accompanying images. Equipment, clay bodies and studio advice are thoroughly covered. Through the work of today's makers, the book then looks at new methods of building by hand, including mixed media work, sculptural methods, vessels and surface decoration, illuminating a wide variety of forms and styles.Sculpting and Handbuilding is an essential guide for any ceramic artist or student wishing to learn the basics of handbuilding, or seeking inspiration to integrate and adapt conventional methods.
2016 The New Age of Ceramics Gingko Press Editions
ISBN 1584236248 ISBN-13 9781584236245
While most surveys of contemporary art focus largely on two-dimensional work, there is a growing movement of emerging as well as established artists that are producing work in the ceramic medium. The New Age of Ceramics documents that movement; accross 180 illustrations it showcases a story of the art world redefining what was previously considered 'craft' rather than art.
2018-11-20 Handbuilt, A Potter's Guide Rockport Publishers
ISBN 9781631595981 ISBN-13 1631595989
In Handbuilt, A Potter's Guide, pottery expert Melissa Weiss shows you the basics of crafting without a wheel, how to harvest and work wild clay, and using natural glazes. Handbuilt pottery is the perfect way for new potters to dive into this unique medium because it doesn't require access to a potter's wheel. In Handbuilt, A Potter's Guide, Melissa Weiss takes an organic approach to harvesting and working with local clays, and even shows you how to mix your own glazes to use on functional pottery for use at home. Students of pottery the world over have traveled to North Carolina to attend Weiss's classes. Now you don't have to! In this book, Melissa provides you with a solid course on slab and pinch-pot techniques that allow beginning students to master the basics and progress through finished wares. Looking to go a little deeper? Melissa also offers her unique knowledge of how to dig and process local clays for use in pottery, and for the techniques she has developed for creating unique glazes with ash, salt, and other dry materials. Melissa will also introduce you talented contemporary potters, who will share their work, tips, advice, and techniques. Learn the basics of handbuilding and more with this engaging guide.
2009-06-22 Pattern, Colour & Form A&C Black
ISBN 9780713678093 ISBN-13 0713678097
A stimulating and inspiring exploration of creative approaches to visual expression: a sourcebook of ideas and images.
2003 Coiled Pottery A&C Black
ISBN 0713666463 ISBN-13 9780713666465
This book is a look at coiled pottery with both historical examples and descriptions of the methods of contemporary and ethnic potters who build in this way. It also discusses different approaches to making and decorating, as well as aesthetic qualities of the work. In this colour edition, the author has brought the contemporary section up to date and included many new colour photographs throughout the book. This is the classic book on the subject and it should appeal not only to potters but to anyone interested in the history of art and cultural studies.
2007 Breaking the Mould Black Dog Publishing
ISBN 1904772765 ISBN-13 9781904772767
The international ceramics scene is enjoying the highest profile it has had for many years. Breaking the Mould looks at ceramic artists working within this versatile medium. Drawing on the rich history of pottery these artists are pushing the techniques, objectives and perceptions of the medium into new, exciting territory. The book profiles the work of over 70 ceramicists, including Suzanne King, Simon Fell, Grayson Perry, Barnaby Barford, Carina Ciscato and Amy Houghton. Their work ranges from interpretations of utilitarian pots, to abstract sculpture and a revisioning of kitch porcelain ornaments, all of which are brought to life in beautiful colour reproductions. Essays by prolific makers and academics look at the history and inspirations behind the medium today. Following in the footsteps of New Directions in Jewellery, Fashioning Fabrics and The Cutting Edge of Wallpaper, Breaking the Mould is a definitive overview of a craft scene that is simultaneously building upon and breaking with its roots, and in doing so creating a brave new future for itself.
2011-03-15 Surfaces and Textures A&C Black
ISBN 0713688599 ISBN-13 9780713688597
This book aims to provide a wealth of visual imagery for ideas and inspiration. This collection of amazing images has been gathered over the last 10 years, showing details of surface textures of everything from rust and wood to lichen and old sails, and has been divided up into themes to make it more accessible. The author has captured fascinating aspects of both natural and man-made things otherwise overlooked, showing the reader their hidden qualities. Elements of skips, old paint, driftwood and stone walls from around the world all contribute to a range of beautiful patterns and samples which make up this selection of photographs. Every surface tells a story and these beautiful images provide a visual sourcebook for artists from all areas of the Visual Arts.
2012 Ceramics and the Human Figure Amer Ceramic Society
ISBN 157498313X ISBN-13 9781574983135
This key text includes individual artists within the field of installation and sculpture as well as those incorporating new technologies. The artists are divided by theme, with each chapter giving a short introduction, and then going on to display the work and ideas of each, showing the very innovative and diverse range of work being made today. A chapter is also included on making methods, giving a glimpse behind the scenes at some of the amalgamation of techniques used to create each piece.
1988-11 Pottery materials B T Batsford Ltd
ISBN UOM:39015013835031
20/09/2019 Ceramics Process European Ceramic Workcentre
Module Resources
Ceramic Review
Art and Perception
Ceramics Ireland
Visual Artists Ireland Newsletter
Students are encouraged to seek Workplacement / Internships/ Scholarships or any work experience in the visual arts. This 'real life' engagement provides an invaluable context for their ongoing learning.