2D UNIT X: Depth Cues
To apply various methods
of suggesting or denying spatial illusion or depth on a two-dimensional
surface. To explore compositional strategies that help to organize pictorial
elements across, into, and out from the picture plane. To find visual equivalents
for the feelings of a fantasy, dream, nightmare, or reverie.
Project References
Vocabulary
Materials
Preliminary: 1. Before coming to class,
review the thematic concept of Fantasy
as found on the website. Also read the discussion
on "depth cues" for Unit X. 2. You may want to work on
some ideas in a diary or record your dreams. Technical Exercise:
1. Look through magazines
for full page photos, advertisements, and images. Select one that utilizes
at least three (3) depth cues. Adhere the
image to a page in your journal. 2. Place a sheet of tracing
paper over the top of the page and secure it neatly to one edge. 3. Drawing on top of the
tracing paper, diagram how depth was achieved. Label the elements that
were used to achieve depth. Also label foreground, background and the
horizon line and vanishing point(s) if possible. At the bottom of the
sheet list the depth cues that were used. Project: 1. Develop a series of alternative
compositions using multiple thumb-nail
sketches, remembering to focus on depth cues and spatial illusion
(see vocabulary above). 2. Using magazine images,
your own photographs, or computer printouts, create a photomontage on
a 15" x 20" illustration board.
Critique Ideas
When you have completed your
composition, divide into small groups and exchange artworks with another
group from the class. Within your group, work together to respond to each
print in turn. Consider the following 2. Point out any personal
symbols the artist used to indicate a particular meaning. 3. Discuss ideas the artwork
seems to communicate. After some sharing of interpretations, attempt to
state the message of the composition in one sentence. (This artwork is
about. . .) 4. Explain how the shapes,
symbols, or other elements of the composition support its message. 5. Divide each group into
two subgroups: viewers who role play that they agree with the artist and
other viewers who role play that they are skeptical. 6. Describe how each set
of viewers would respond to the artwork. Each student should volunteer
to present an interpretation of one of the artworks basing that interpretation
on the small group's discussion.
Project G1
Fantastic Illusions
(from a project by Isa Gordon)
Objectives
Project Overview
Your challenge
is to plan and execute a photomontage
that both creates a convincing spatial illusion and conveys the feelings
of a personal fantasy or dream. Your focus should be on the effective use
of depth cues deployed in a convincing perspectival space. Your final composition
can be understood as an opportunity to give visual expression to your fantasies--whether
of heaven or hell.
Cubism, Op Art,
Surrealism
picture plane,
depth cues, overlap, relative size, transparency, vertical location, relative
position, aerial/atmospheric perspective, vanishing point, horizon line,
vantage point, one-point perspective, two-point perspective, three-point
perspective, multi-point perspective, amplified perspective, foreshortening,
multiple perspective,
15 x 20"
illustration board, x-acto knife, scissors, rubber cement or graphic arts
paste, collage/montage materials (magazine images, prints, photos), ruler,
paints and brushes, pens and pencils.
Process
1. Describe the various depth cues your fellow artists used and explain
how the illusion of three-dimensional space was achieved.
Assessment
Examine the final artwork
to determine whether the artist communicates an idea, whether they use depth
cues effectively, and whether the image is organized (composed) effectively.
As students offer interpretations of their classmates' artworks, note whether
they can identify a message and point to aspects of the artwork that support
that message.
Items for a Fantasy Portfolio might include:
--a series of photomontages based on dreams
--written interpretations of surrealist prints and paintings from your local
Art Museum