Examining Space (SCU2214.01)

John Umphlett

This introductory course will investigate basic building techniques and principles behind making Sculpture through experiential learning. A few weeks into term we will participate in an Iron Pour, understanding the practices of shaping wax and preparing sand-molds for participation. The students will also be introduced and immersed within a community of artists off campus. This class will continue to demonstrate known material manipulations of classical processes; however, will encourage further exploration of more contemporary approaches as the class moves forward. We will use materials such as, but not limited to, wood, steel, plaster, wire mesh, alginate, cardboard and clay, as well as non toxic glues and hardware and fasteners. The students will become knowledgeable of safety procedures and understand how to use the woodshop’s basic hand and stationary tools efficiently. The class will have four to five main projects over the period of the term. Each project will have a prompted topic for the student to respond alongside a set variety of materials to work with. These materials restrictions, early in term, will allow the students to become creative on the most basic levels. The students will learn to become innovative and invent ways to work around a problem. We will understand and practice building works within a physically productive studio. Each student will be responsible for keeping a journal/drawing that is split up per project. In addition, each student will consistently propagate a digital folder, organized by project, that will contain websites, images and inspirational findings. This practice will act as a reference for student responsibilities as well as open conversation around portfolio building. These digital folders will also aid in preparations for individual presentations, randomly called upon throughout the term. There will be regular project related presentations that will complement individual group critiques. 




Learning Outcomes:
1. Learn to use the equipment for fabrication and methods of construction involving wood, metal, plaster, and clay.
2. Gain fluency in the fundamental aesthetics of three dimensional form.
3. Learn about the history of sculptural practices up to the contemporary moment, in its diversity of cultural perspectives and identities.
4. Become familiar with the process of transferring drawing and narrative prompts into three dimensional form.



Delivery Method: Fully in-person
Course Level: 2000-level
Credits: 4
Th 8:30AM - 12:10PM (Full-term)
Maximum Enrollment: 18
Course Frequency: One time only

Categories: 2000 , All courses , Four Credit , Fully In-Person , Sculpture , Updates
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