Time Schedule:
Timea Tihanyi
ART 360
Seattle Campus
Examines a variety of cutting edge, emerging, and interdisciplinary approached in studio art and practice. Topics vary.
Class description
ART360: Soft Sculpture is a hands-on studio course exploring materials, forms and techniques for creating various 3-dimensional soft sculptural forms (functional and non-functional alike), installations and wearable body-extensions.
Student learning goals
The objective of the course is to develop understanding and technical skills for working with a variety of fiber (like natural wool or paper pulp) and synthetic (like urethane rubber, latex, foam) materials. We will explore different ways of creating forms and surfaces, emphasizing process and the unique qualities of materials. In addition, we will consider the way these forms can utilize space and interact with the viewer's body.
A major component of the course will be experimentation of with the newly acquired techniques as well as using them in combination with other techniques to develop finished projects.
The following topics will be covered: Felt making, Mold-making/Casting and Armatures for fiber and plastic materials, Understanding and using synthetic rubbers. Mixed-media, found and non-traditional materials. Some sculptural paper-making may also be possible.
Students will be able to set their own goals within a set of assignment guidelines; work on an idea during an extended period of time, and fully develop that into a finished project.
General method of instruction
The course is highly recommended for junior and senior students in the studio art program, especially for students in the Interdisciplinary Visual Arts major. In addition to the studio assignments, gallery visits, presentations, and discussions will provide content for the course.
Class time will be spent on technical demonstrations, studio worktime, project consultations, and critiques. Some assignments will be done outside of class time.
Recommended preparation
At least 3 previous courses in studio art (including some kind of 3D/sculpture class) are recommended. Familiarity with basic construction methods for fabric/yarn (sewing, weaving, knitting, crocheting, etc...) is helpful but not required. Students planning to work with urethane rubber and latex MUST get their own organic vapor/solvent filter cartridge equipped OSHA certified respirators. Plastics, like urethane and latex, are expensive materials; expect to spend $120/gallon kit on urethane. However, the use of plastics is NOT necessary for the successful completion of this class. There will be a variety of alternative methods and materials presented and explored.
Class assignments and grading
There will be several technical assignments, short exercises, in addition to the two main projects. Additional short research or writing assignments.
Final grade will be determined by the following: - Effort shown in, artistic merit of completed projects: 40% - Participation in class activities, including work classes, critiques, class discussions, etc.: 40% - Professional manner, individual effort, commitment, progress throughout the quarter: 20%
