Idiosyncratic Tools (SCU2205.01)

John Umphlett

Use a hammer to hit a nail into a chunk of wood. Anyone may smash a cube of ice, carve a toy car or with strong encouragement, allow the hammer to sign its initials on your thumb – VBS (violet burning sunset.)

Idiosyncratic devices enhance one’s own senses. Once we completely understand the specific functions for which a tool is designed, we begin to tune senses back to the makers’ concepts. Too often do we rely on the discoveries of others in order to perform daily tasks. Rather than finding solutions that seem comfortable, we will set limitations to challenge ourselves to use what is around us. Class time will be allotted to the discussion of idiosyncratic devices as well as tool design and concepts that support specific material selection. The student will also be responsible for consistently drawing and refining the work in sketchbook. The evaluations will be determined by class participation and product output. All work should be on time of due dates. It is your responsibility that one class missed is made-up by my instruction. If two classes are missed during this seven-week intensive it will be hard to recover from failure.


Learning Outcomes:
Proficient and Safe use of CO2 Laser along with Supported CAD software.
Experiential learning along with understanding multiple material properties with safe practice.
Problem solving skills by recontextualizing product histories and context.
Understanding how to upcycle specialized materials and identify its properties.



Delivery Method: Fully in-person
Course Level: 2000-level
Credits: 2
F 8:30AM - 12:10PM (1st seven weeks)
Maximum Enrollment: 14
Course Frequency: Every 2-3 years

Categories: 2000 , All courses , First Seven Week , Fully In-Person , Sculpture , Two Credit , Visual Arts (VA)
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