Combined Forms

Using the definitions of Linear Form (wire) and Planar Form (cardboard) we will create 1.5-2 ft individual linear, planar, and solid asymmetrical geometric forms in class. The project will need one shape for each form which can be anything created in the period of time designated, for each definition. Investigate potential textures to create contrasts in the individual forms and each form should have volume (height X width x depth). Then combine the 2 forms into a dynamic formal composition! Your forms should be abstract.  

I first started off by drawing up various planar forms to brainstorm more ideas than the expected 3D shapes such as pyramids, hearts, cubes, etc. I landed on a combined shape of an oval shape and a cylinder. To make both shapes more interesting, I put a whole through the oval shape, and tilted the cylinder and put a curved top on it.

From here, I still needed a linear form made from wire. I chose to implement the linear form into the planar form to act almost as its own plane to the planar form. I put straight wires across each cardboard panel of the cylinder. This created a spiderweb net effect looking down on the top of the cylindar. I did a similar technique for the oval half of the planar form to create a ladder looking “panel” by using repeated bars of wire running across the edge of the top of each oval shape. Additionally, the wires had curled ends that made the exterior of the form more dynamic.

I chose to make the linear forms more discreet to not take away from the planar form I liked so much. In hindsight, I wished I hadn’t because I can so clearly picture more interesting linear forms coming out from the planar form that would have made the piece so much more interesting.

If I could alter any part of my project, I would put energy into my linear form. I understand the instructions so I neglected the linear forms until the end. I wish I had put as much energy into them as my planar forms. One thing I could have done, that didn’t even dawn at me at the time, was to paint the wires. This would especially been helpful for the wires on the oval shape that blend into the planar form.

The planar form is where I think I strived because I tried to use techniques I learned from past projects. For instance, the Objects in Space project, I learned how movement with gestural lines across a composition, like a diagonal slash across a piece, can make a piece more dynamic. I implemented a diagonal gestural line like this with the cardboard cylinder shape. I think this makes the piece much more dynamic from all angles.

As for the texture, I think I achieved that well with the repetition of pattern with the white paint as well as the wire stringing around the top of the cylinder. I was also able to create strong contrast with the white stripes running down the cylinder, and with the polkadot clusters.