Art History 2D Inspiration

I'm thinking about doing some female figures since I haven't done any explicitly female forms. And looking through art history there is definitely not a lack of female representation, whether it is good representation is another issue. I'm going to ignore the reclining nudes because they are so overused in all the possible ways I'm going to puke.

I thought about that idea of making a collage-like sculpture. I think to be able to do that I might have to make different separate parts and put them together? I'm still not sure how to execute that.
I looked at the works of Hannah Hoch my favorite collage artist and I found this.

I remember I had a sketch last year with a figure on a trapezoid base like this!! I was already thinking about turning my sketches into 3D works.
Now what makes Hoch's figures great is that they are part conventionally pretty and part African mask (or other things). I won't be copying her style, of course, but I like that contrast. I think I would try using different materials for each part.

AP 3D Concentration Ideas

Still feeling really uninspired at the moment so I'll just list some things on the top of my head, in no particular order.

1. nature vs. human objects
I'm planning on doing a sculpture of a fragmented caterpillar with one section of its body transformed into a watch. If I continue this idea I would be looking for parts of animals or plants that resemble man-made objects, and actually making that part the object. The caterpillar watch idea came from a surreal painting I sketched but never painted. Another sketch I did that might fit into this concentration is the human figure with scissors. Human body is natural and scissors are man-made objects. This idea is awfully similar to Dali's lobster phone.

2. queer representation
Also belongs to the things-that-piss-me-off list. It's no news that I care a lot about gender and sexuality issues, but they're a pain in the butt to present visually. Recently I've been upset by a certain television series's reluctance (or hesitance, we don't really know) to put the romantic narrative of its two male leads into text. Although I'm grateful that society has come to a place where we can actually talk about this sort of thing, I'm saddened by how it has to struggle to be recognized and the dismissive attitude adopted by the general public. Many people, including my younger self, are still seeing sexuality as labels rather than a spectrum. I've always wanted to do something that criticize the representation of LGBTQ in media, or show the diversity in sexuality. But how I would go about that I have no idea, at least I'm still thinking.

3. effemiphobia
A word I learned only several days ago, but have known the effects since the day I started hating pink (I don't hate it anymore). Another entry into the things-that-piss-me-off list. Effemiphobia is the rejection of traditionally-defined feminine traits for the underlying fear of being seen as weak. I want more people to know about this concept and realize in themselves that they have been a victim of this attitude. I personally went through the process. When I was much younger I did everything to not act like a "girl," even though I identify as one, because I thought I had to be more "manly" to be taken seriously. This hatred and contempt for feminine traits is the reason for a lot of sexism, but not many people know about it.

4. decay
I've thought about this idea for AP 2D last year. I'm thinking about different things decomposing and breaking down. It started out toward more organic decomposition but now I think it might include human destruction as well, or even metaphorical decay rather than literal.

5. fabric
Ugh, I really want to do something with fabric. I'm still thinking about it.

Javier Perez

I saw this artist's work some time ago and was intrigued because of this particular piece.

Humano, 1998

It reminded me of the headless guy I created in my collages, especially the one with snow and a blueish tone. I guess I'm not original after all. Still I look at this piece and feel like this artist and I might be addressing a similar human internal struggle. What I get from looking at more of his work is that he indeed likes to explore human experiences. His art depicts a very introspective reflection on personal yet universal suffering. It's rather painful to look at, actually, and even when a piece doesn't have recognizable body parts, they're still so, so human.

La torre de sonido, 1999

Mascara ceremonial, 1998

Máscara de seducción II, 2008

A lot of his artwork combines different forms of presentation. For this sculpture it can be viewed on its own, but apparently it can also be worn and performed in.

Híbrido III, 2007

El baile del infinito, 2003

His installations continue using different appeals to the senses. The one above incorporate motion; others contain motion, sound, and shadow play.
Here is a video.

Virgo Matter, 2012

Corona, 2011

I noticed his more recent works have adopted some religious references.

Perez also did some drawings and photography, but his 3D work prevailed and impressed me the most. You can find more on his website.

Masks

I think masks can represent a culture pretty well. They embody the artistic and religious traditions of that culture, and whether their purpose was to celebrate, entertain, or fight off evil spirits they show us a glimpse into the minds of the ancient peoples.
Let's start off with some traditional masks. I really need some inspiration for my mask project.

African:

This one above is from an amazing photoset by National Geographic, depicting modern mask-wearers in Africa.

Oceania:
Oceanic art gives me the creeps, but it also has some of the most diverse and creative style. Perfect for Halloween, I guess.

Bali:

Native American:

I'm actually spending way too much time on researching this. Time to start on other homework.
For my own mask, I'm hoping to make it less humanoid and more abstract. Like what many traditional masks aim to do, transforming the wearer into something more than human and even spiritual. I'm also planning on using recycled materials. If I have the time, I might even be able to put together a whole outfit to go with the mask. Right now, I'm struggling on possibly choosing a theme for my mask so the designs can be based on an idea.

Constantin Brancusi and Bases

As Mrs. Jones suggested, I'm looking at Brancusi's bases to get some ideas. It's also nice to look at the sculptures themselves, of course.

All of his bases are geometric shapes that contrast with the more organic curves of the sculptures but complimenting the abstract aspect of the works simultaneously.
I will have to think about what shapes can bring out the undulating lines of my own sculpture.

Often Brancusi's bases are composed of different materials, giving them varying colors and textures. They are really incorporated into the structure, and they find a balance between being fairly interesting themselves and not too distracting as to steal attention away from the subject.

Things to think about:
- simple, complimenting shapes
- materials (preferably recycled)
- palette (if going to paint)
- height (how many layers maybe?)

Top 5 Colleges List

(in no particular order)

1. Rutgers State University of New Jersey

An essay is required for first year applicants and must be composed and submitted in the essay box provided on the online application. The essay is an important factor in admissions decisions and also will be used for assessing student eligibility for academic scholarships.

Essays submitted separately from the application will not be considered. We recommend that you:

• Preview the first-year student essay question on the application.
• Compose and edit your essay in a word-processing document, making certain that it does not exceed 3,800 characters in length, including spaces.
• Prior to submitting the application, copy and paste it into the essay box provided on the application.

UNDERGRAD PORTFOLIO REQUIREMENTS

Please submit at least 15 examples of your artwork (produced within the last two years) that reflect your accomplishments and emphasize your strengths. Your portfolio should tell us that you will be successful in our classes including those that introduce to you new materials and ideas.

Please include at least one page from a sketchbook and if possible include a variety of media such as painting, observational drawing, photography, print, sculpture. If possible include self-initiated work as well as classroom assignments. If your primary interest is video include at least one video in addition to your other work. If your primary interest is photography you must include other media in addition to the photographs in your portfolio.

Things to consider:

• Be selective and show only your best work
• Show some personal work
• Show a variety of media, color as well as monochrome
• Avoid cartoon action figures, monsters, graffiti art, cute pets, portraits drawn from photographs, and images of vacations, in particular sunsets and flowers.

2. Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD)

Statement of purpose. The statement should be no more than 500 words in length and should give an overview of the applicant's academic and personal experience, describing preparation for and commitment to further study at SCAD, as well as educational and professional goals and aspirations.

Portfolio Requirements

Digital or Time-based Media

A strong portfolio includes foundation and graphics skills, where applicable, effective use of 2-D form and composition, and an understanding of additive and subtractive color theory. In addition, portfolios should demonstrate an aesthetic awareness and effective use of software and tools. A strong video portfolio includes an awareness of composition, storytelling and technical skills, with attention given to costumes, set and acting. An inventory sheet is required.

Visual arts or design

Traditional visual art or design pieces may be executed in any medium, in black-and-white or color, and may include, but are not limited to, drawing, painting, design, printmaking, collage, photography, sculpture, jewelry, fashion, furniture or fiber art. Portfolio pieces may represent classroom assignments as well as independent projects. The portfolio should demonstrate originality of concept, use of appropriate materials, and visual literacy. Works should be purposeful.

Portfolios are reviewed on the following qualitative measures: aesthetic awareness, composition, drawing, design, color perception, spatial perception, quality of presentation, technique and originality. Favorable consideration is given to strong 2-D and 3-D work that shows attention to technique, drawing, scale and original design.

  

 

3.    University of Southern California (USC)

B.F.A. Technical Applicants Only

(i.e. Design, Stage Management, Sound and Technical Direction)

• Current picture or headshot
• Theatre resume
• Autobiographical essay (See below for prompt)
• Letter of recommendation
• Schedule a portfolio review/interview
• Please click here to register and upload your portfolio.

Autobiographical Essay Prompt
Your autobiographical essay should be typed, double-spaced with one inch margins on all sides. We recommend using 12-point font in Times New Roman. In total, it should be no more than 350 words and address the following:
1. What influenced your decision to major in Dramatic Arts?
2. Why are you applying to the USC School of Dramatic Arts?
3. What are your expectations from a college education?
4. What are your professional goals and objectives?
5. What extenuating circumstances (if any) may have affected your previous academic performance?

4.    Fordham University – The Jesuit University of New York

Common app.

No information on portfolio.

5.    Purchase College State University of New York

**NOTE: BFA Acting and BFA Theatre Design/Technology applicants are NOT required to submit the SUNY Supplemental Admission Form.  However, BFA Acting applicants must submit an essay/written statement of 300-500 words on any subject they find meaningful. One copy of this essay must be submitted to Admissions and another copy must be submitted at the BFA Acting audition.

Interview Requirements:

Read Night of the Iguana: Read the play Night of the Iguana, by Tennessee Williams.  Questions about this play will be asked during the interview.

Prepare a Resume:  Your resume should include a complete list of your theatrical experiences.  It should include titles of works, duties performed, locations of performances and the name of the directors, designers and stage managers with whom you have worked.  Bring one copy of your resume with you to the interview. 

Prepare a Portfolio: Prepare and bring with you to the interview a portfolio that includes examples of design and/ or technical work that you have done in high school, community theatres, summer stock, or at other colleges. 

Letters of Recommendation: Please bring two letters of recommendation (in sealed envelopes) with you when you come for your interview. 

About the Portfolio:

Your portfolio materials should reflect your interest and/or work in one of the following potential areas of specialization:

Costume Design, Lighting Design, Scene Design, Costume Technology, Stage Management, or Technical Direction/Production Management.

Portfolio materials can include the following for each respective specialization:

• Costume Design - Drawings, paintings, and/or garments that you have made.  These items need not to be theatrical.
• Lighting Design - Drawings, paintings, photography, drafting plots and lighting plots.
• Scene Design - Drawings, paintings, still life or still life studies and drafting designs.
• Costume Technology - Samples of costume construction, photos of work that has been built, drawings and other artwork.
• Stage Management - Prompt scripts, cue sheets, ground plans, rehearsal notes and programs.
• Technical Direction/Production Management - Drafting samples, objects that you have built, photographs and production paperwork.

AP 2D Portfolio: Concentration

AP 2D Portfolio: Breadth