materials and tools to interpret a subject when producing an abstract sculpture.
You will use the traditional method of assembling. You will use cardboard as a ...
LESSON 2
Abstract Sculpture Sculptures created through the method of assembling are often unique and daring. Look at Figure 12–9. Can you tell what materials the sculptor used? Can you tell what this sculpture is supposed to be? This sculpture, by Naum Gabo, is abstract. Artwork is abstract if the subject of the artwork is simplified or stylized. You probably can see that this sculpture represents a human head even though it is stylized. Imagine that this sculpture has been taken apart, and all of its pieces are laid in a pile in front of you. Would you be able to tell that these shapes represent the parts of a face? Imagine that you are a sculptor. Could you assemble these same shapes to represent another kind of object?
WHAT YOU WILL LEARN You will select a variety of appropriate art materials and tools to interpret a subject when producing an abstract sculpture. You will use the traditional method of assembling. You will use cardboard as a building material and glue as a joining material. Your sculpture will be stylized or simplified. It will use a variety of geometric shapes and forms to express the idea of a person’s head. Design your sculpture with either a vertical or horizontal emphasis. When finished, paint the sculpture with a coat of black or white paint to give it harmony. (See Figure 12–10.)
WHAT YOU WILL NEED ● ●
Pencil and sheets of sketch paper Sheets of corrugated cardboard cut from boxes or other appropriate materials ● Large scissors and white glue ● Tempera or spray paint
WHAT YOU WILL DO
Figure 12–9 This sculpture shows a human head. Can you identify any facial features of this figure? Which ones? Why do you think this work was considered to be so daring when it was first created? Naum Gabo. Constructed Head No. 2. 1916. Reconstructed c.1923–1924. Sculptured celluloid. 43.2 31.1 31.1 cm (17 121⁄4 121⁄4). Dallas Museum of Art, Dallas, Texas. Edward S. Marcus Memorial Fund.
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Chapter 12
Sculpture
1. Study Figure 12–9. The facial features appear as simple geometric shapes. The nose is rectangular and the eyes are elliptical, or oval shaped. 2. Select a model for your abstract sculptural portrait. It can be a friend, a family member, or a classmate. Look at your model. Create a main focus by distorting a particular feature, as Gabo has done. You might change the size of the feature or alter its shape in some way. Make several pencil sketches of your model until you have made one that pleases you. 3. Make a revised pencil sketch of your model using simple geometric shapes to symbolize the real shapes. Decide whether your sculpture will be horizontal or vertical.
4. Using scissors, cut a large cardboard shape as a base. Refer to your sketch to cut out smaller geometric shapes to form the facial features of your model. You may cut the shapes in half, or in eighths. Think about different facial expressions. For example, is your model smiling or frowning? 5. Assemble your work by gluing shapes and forms to each other. Work carefully. Look at your sculpture from different angles before joining each new piece. You may choose to cut slits in your cardboard shapes to attach them more securely. 6. Paint your sculpture using either white or black tempera or spray paint. The use of a single color will add harmony to the work. Spray paint works especially well in this case.
Evaluating Your Work ● Describe Name the different shapes and forms you used in your work. Show shapes with different textures or patterns. ● Analyze Tell whether you used vertical or horizontal emphasis in your work. Explain how shapes and forms add interest to your work. ● Interpret Title your work. Explain how you interpreted your subject when producing your abstract head. ● Judge Tell whether you feel your work succeeds. Explain your answer.
SAFETY TIP Use spray paint outdoors or in a room with good ventilation. Before spraying, place your sculpture inside a large cardboard box. This will help contain some of the harmful fumes.
Figure 12–10
STUDIO OPTION Select and use a variety of appropriate art materials and tools to interpret a subject when producing a second experimental sculpture. Combine found objects to represent an animal, bird, reptile, or amphibian. These odds and ends might include plastic spoons, straws, old door hinges, or other metal parts. Paint your sculpture black, white, or grey to emphasize its overall form.
Student work. An abstract sculpture.
Visual Art Journal Define a variety of concepts directly related to the art elements and principles used in your sculpture. How are the elements and principles used to create an abstract style? Write down your thoughts in your journal, using vocabulary accurately.
Lesson 2 Abstract Sculpture
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