Sunday, March 31, 2013

Physical Force: Gravity

So the word "gravity" makes me think of John Mayer, to be honest.  But considering gravity as the physical force that it is, I believe it's important to remember that gravity is not our enemy, as Mary Stewart rightly pointed out (page 271).  Gravity may seem to be more of a consideration when working with sculptures, but it certainly plays a part in all forms of art. Even just the concept of gravity is important to keep in mind.  Could I venture to say that we all subconsciously feel that downward pull?  Maybe that is just my pessimistic outlook on life coming through.

P.S. Happy Easter and last day of March!

Tuesday, March 26, 2013

The Best Things

Watched a film with Joseph Campbell today.  He had some interesting insight and said something to the effect of this:
The best things in life can't be told. The second best are misunderstood.  And the third are what we talk about.

How are the best, second best, or even third best things communicated through art?

Sunday, March 24, 2013

Materials, Methods, & More

Okay, so the Materials and Methods chapter in Mary Stewart's book is super intriguing.  I get inspired by unique materials, but she mentions some viable considerations such as durability, work-ability, and strength.  These are things to think about when choosing materials for a project, going beyond just what might look good.  Of course there are ways to increase strength and many methods of construction that come into play as well.  Stewart also touches on connections and transitions.  These concepts are important to us as people, whether we consciously think about it or not.

Ernest Daetwyler's Time Bomb, constructed of old furniture parts, exemplifies use of ephemeral materials.

Photo found here.

Saturday, March 23, 2013

Another Nutrition Facts

Seems that I come across this spin on the nutrition facts label everywhere I look. Not quite, but still. Saw this on the back of an album my sister just got.
My own spin is still a work in progress, but it's gonna happen.

Monday, March 18, 2013

No Shadows

Thinking about light and shadows.  Mary Stewart addresses light as a "pivotal aspect of three dimensional design" (p. 206).  Light defines art as we know it, more than some of us may realize.  The values of light have potential to enhance and create depth, depending on the light source.  Light, highlights and shadows cast by light, and the absence of light define our lives.  Here's a thought: Will there be no shadows in heaven?  I read in the Bible, the book of Revelation, just to find out what it has to say about that.  Verse 5 of chapter 22 reads: "And light will be no more.  They will need no light of lamp or sun, for the Lord God will be their light, and they will reign forever and ever."  If God is light and God is everywhere in heaven, then light will be everywhere too...following me?  I do believe this might mean that there will be no shadows!  I can't even comprehend such a light source.  But I sure do want to be there see what that will look like.

Sunday, March 17, 2013

Instagram to Advertising?

Land a job through Instagram!  From Business Insider a while back, I found this article to be quite inspiring.  Your creativity through simply doing what you love and doing it well can take you to unexpected places.  Well, for some fortunate people at least.  It's exciting...interesting marketing opportunities...and learn about the gal who created hashtag fromwhereistand.  Ready?  Read.

Monday, March 11, 2013

Propaganda Project

Creating a propaganda poster in protest of organic hype is a bit exciting.  Any propaganda poster would have to be a little exciting.  It's all about making a statement.  I'm working on conveying my message through use of the common Nutrition Facts label found on many foods.  Here are a few examples I've found where others have employed the same concept. 




Wednesday, March 6, 2013

Mulan - My Favorite

I'm going back in the book a bit.  Stewart references Disney's Mulan when writing of dynamic space (see page 100-101).  I love that she makes this reference!  Mulan has been a long-time favorite of mine.  I remember even watching it when I was much younger, I distinctly noticed the dynamic "shots" that were captured within the animation.  I got chills when the army advanced down the snowy mountain side before Mulan and her people.  The camera angles showing off the palace captivated my attention and drew me in.  Even at the end when Mulan slides down the string of Chinese lanterns from the roof, the shot reveals the mass of people below.  Though the animation is simple, the movie is incredible because of the creators' approach to space.
Angle on the advancing army, they are just spilling over the side of the mountain.
Love all these reflections. (Ha, no pun intended with the song title.) 
Peeking through the flowers, this has always been a favorite scene of mine.