Art Department, Bliss Hall, Room 208
office tel: (718) 289-5341
Prof. Roni
Ben-Nun
email: bennun@optonline.net
Office Hours: Wednesdays, 1 – 2 PM,
Bliss Hall, Room 311
Assignment
# 2 – Patterns and Motifs
A Pattern is made by the repetition of a basic motif. A motif could be made out of any abstracted or figurative shape. It could be simple or complex, colorful or monochromatic. It could also be made out of several objects combined together into a composite motif.
Rule out two 5” X 5” squares on a sheet of sketch paper. Choose a common household tool (hummer, pliers, screwdriver, etc.) and draw it inside the two squares in two different views as realistically as you can. Use shading to show three-dimensionality (this may be easier if you put a strong light source on your object.)
In class, we will choose one of the drawings and make a simplified version of it by reducing the details to a minimum and leaving out unnecessary features. The goal is to achieve a simple but comprehensible representation of our tool. Next, you will reproduce your simplified version and make 3-5 copies. Cutout and arrange your copies together in a way that will create an interesting composite motif.
For the next class, reproduce your composite motif either by using a photocopier or scanner and create 20 - 30 copies of your composite motif. Cut them out carefully and bring them to class. In class, you will experiment with your motifs and try to achieve an interesting pattern. The finish is to be done on a sheet of black construction paper (which I will provide.) Be mindful of the negative spaces you leave out, and the layout of your motifs on the page.
The point is to come up with a dynamic, interesting composition that makes the original tool less visible by the changes you have done and the layout you have chosen. Be creative and take pride in your work.
It is essential that your work is clean and precise, so take your time!
