AT 104: Basic Design II
Semester: Spring 2010
Project 1– Anything but the Box
The Design Process
Step 1: Recognition of a Problem
An object that has length, height and depth is a three- dimensional form.
In the creation of a form there are three main characteristics; shape, mass and structure.
Shape refers to the contour outline of the form.
Mass refers to the solidness of the form.
Structure refers to way in which the form is constructed.
A beginner art and design student must learn how to visualize and translate these characteristics into different three-dimensional forms.
Step 2: Definition of the Problem
The objective of this project is design a new three-dimensional form by “deconstructing” a box.
You can create anything you want from this cardboard box by additive and/or subtractive methods, exploring its colors, textures, surfaces’ possibilities.
Though, there are few considerations to take account of in your problem solving process:
1. You can only use the box as it is (e.g. don’t paint it or add extra objects/materials)
2. You must use the entire box in your reconstruction. NO remains should be left out of it.
3. The outcome of your reconstruction should be 3Dimensional.
4. The 3D reconstruction should achieve a sense of visual and structural Unity between its parts.
Step 3: Research and Preparation
q Gather information about creativity using the Internet, library, textbook reading requested.
q Make notes from videos screened in class.
q Select one or more quotes or concepts and write your thoughts about creativity. Place the reaction paper in the notebook/blog
q Deconstruct the box you have brought to class
q Photograph the process from the entire box to the deconstructing and reconstructing steps, from the cut out of the box, to the finished 3D outcome of your project.
Step 4: Analysis
q Decide how you can “get out of the box” by creating a new three-dimensional form from the box. When you complete the new design, the original box form should disappear.
q Draw sketches of at least four different ideas for the new form. Be sure to explore different views of the forms and how the form will be exhibited (hanging, wall mounted, on a pedestal, on the floor, etc.) Make notes on your sketches to help explain your ideas, materials to use, etc.
q Mark the date you do the sketches
q Place the sketches in the pocket divider of the notebook/ post them in your blog.
q From the sketches create small sketch models out of paper/bristol board to explore your design ideas. Photograph the sketch models.
Step 5: Synthesis
q Gather the materials you will need to deconstruct the box into the new form.
q Select one design or synthesize a couple of ideas into a final form.
q Keep the sketch models to show during your presentation.
Step 6: Evaluation
Go back to the definition of the problem, Step 2, and make sure that the final design follows
project requirements. Make adjustments as needed. Review the notebook requirements and make sure all materials are complete.
Step 7. Presentation
q Be sure that you present your project in a way that explores its best potential to be appreciated as a 3D form. On table, hanging from ceiling, wall, place in the floor, etc.
q Take photographs of the design as the new form develops. When the final form is finished take photographs from all views. Organize them chronologically
q Documentation in folder or blog form due along the 3D project on critique day.
Step 8: Implementation
Bring the project finished and notebook/blog completed for class presentation and critique on:
Section 3 & 4: February 1st
Section 1: February 3rd
You will discuss the process you went through to come up with your final design and your thoughts about following the steps of the Design Process.
Project 1 Evaluation – Anything but the Box
1. Oral Presentation
2. 3-D Design Notebook/ Blog
q research on creativity
q sketches
q sketch models
q photo documentation of process
q creativity reaction paper
3. “Anything but the Box” 3-d form
q Concept / Process
q Implementation / Final design (creativity, 3-d form, craftsmanship)
