3D Art

Non-Objective Shape, Colour, Line and Texture Project

Project Description

There are three responses to a piece of design: yes, no and wow." - Milton Glaser

OBJECTIVE: Create a low-relief composition (made with foam-core, hot glue and acrylic paint) that relies on the Principles of Composition to give order and visual interest to the Elements of Art (shape, value, colour, line, mass / space, texture).

PROCEDURE: Draw three or five different shapes on your newsprint pad. Some of the shapes can be organic, some of the shapes can be geometric, but all must be NON-OBJECTIVE (follow this link to learn about the differences between abstraction and non-objective art).

Next, repeat each shape several times, making each iteration a different size. You will end up with between nine and twenty-five unique shapes. Transfer your shapes to foam-core and then cut them out. Experiment with your shapes by putting them in different configurations. Move them around the picture plane until you find a composition that is dynamic and visually interesting. Some of the shapes can be lifted off the surface of the picture plane by propping them up with smaller pieces of foam-core underneath. This is an effective way to create a sense of depth in your composition.

Examples of Student Works

TECHNICAL: Paint your shapes and the support with acrylic paint before gluing everything in place. This will make it much easier to create a smooth and even finish over the entire work. Use only one colour, but five or six different values: one value for each kind of foam-core plus a separate value for the 20 x 30 inch support. Choose one foamcore that is particularly interesting (it might be larger or more elaborate than the rest) and then paint it a slightly different, yet analogous colour. This foam-core will provide emphasis for the entire composition. When all of the painted pieces are dry, use hot glue to adhere them to the supporting piece of foam-core.

AESTHETIC: Your work must adhere to the Principles of Composition: especially Emphasis, Variety, Movement, Balance, Unity, Rhythm and Proportion.