tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25234980250171939562024-03-13T07:37:22.163-07:00Art e-JournalThoughts on the creative process, tutorials (various media), project ideas, sketches and photographs by Northwest artist, Christine Musser (Merrikin Designs)merrikin designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01369362440861447101noreply@blogger.comBlogger36125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2523498025017193956.post-17400641441501388982015-01-10T21:25:00.001-08:002015-01-10T21:25:09.450-08:00Alternative Approach to Art Smart Lesson/Paul Klee's "Head of a Man": Elementary Grade (suggest 4th grade and up)For this lesson, you will need: <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x1L0LNcP4RU/VLH35pjL3qI/AAAAAAAAAXw/PWumo_nuV8k/s1600/headof%2Ba%2Bman_klee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x1L0LNcP4RU/VLH35pjL3qI/AAAAAAAAAXw/PWumo_nuV8k/s1600/headof%2Ba%2Bman_klee.jpg" height="200" width="185" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Head of a Man" by Paul Klee</td></tr>
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<ul>
<li>9x12 Watercolor paper (or thick Bristol board)</li>
<li>Pencil</li>
<li>Eraser, kneaded or vinyl</li>
<li>White oil pastel (1st choice) or white crayon</li>
<li>Watercolor paints (preferable pan style for ease of clean up)</li>
<li>Brush, 1 inch or so wide, soft watercolor style</li>
<li>Brush, watercolor style, about 1/4 round</li>
<li>Jar of water. Have class helpers change out the water while the students work. Muddy water makes for muddy colors in the painting.</li>
<li>Optional: aquarelle pencils (watercolor in pencil form)</li>
</ul>
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Abstraction tends to be tough for elementary school students. Here is a method I found that worked well with a class of 4th graders that produced great results and more importantly, little frustration.<br />
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First, I suggest hold off handing out the paints and water until the pencil drawing part is done. Then after briefly discussing Paul Klee and his work to the class, have them follow a series of verbal instructions.<br />
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Verbal instructions:<br />
1. Paper should be portrait orientation. Have students write their name on the back.<br />
2. Draw 4-5 horizontal lines across (going off the edges) the page. Lines should not be perfectly spaced or parallel. For steps 2-5, have students draw lightly as some of the line will be erased later on.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cMt0o8Po3hE/VLHtIMI0O1I/AAAAAAAAAW0/KoGpPmxDrHw/s1600/01_horizontal.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cMt0o8Po3hE/VLHtIMI0O1I/AAAAAAAAAW0/KoGpPmxDrHw/s1600/01_horizontal.png" height="200" width="147" /></a></td></tr>
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3. Draw 4-5 vertical lines (off the page and not perfectly spaced or parallel like above). For these instructions, from this point on the past stages will be in blue line.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5RkBukCrhUU/VLHv-yFPzrI/AAAAAAAAAXM/9tDkEmHKPJk/s1600/02_vertical.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5RkBukCrhUU/VLHv-yFPzrI/AAAAAAAAAXM/9tDkEmHKPJk/s1600/02_vertical.png" height="200" width="148" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Adding vertical lines.</td></tr>
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4. Draw 4 rectangles. Okay to overlap and go off the page.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e51MEtBxLNU/VLHyFmoWhnI/AAAAAAAAAXY/O_qsmmWSKjU/s1600/03_rectangles.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e51MEtBxLNU/VLHyFmoWhnI/AAAAAAAAAXY/O_qsmmWSKjU/s1600/03_rectangles.png" height="200" width="148" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Adding rectangles.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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5. Draw 3 triangles. Okay to overlap and go off page.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-11IfFNNdNws/VLH1hgvfhhI/AAAAAAAAAXk/7WeMnfEsAwE/s1600/04_triangles.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-11IfFNNdNws/VLH1hgvfhhI/AAAAAAAAAXk/7WeMnfEsAwE/s1600/04_triangles.png" height="200" width="148" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Adding triangles.</td></tr>
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6. Drawing the circle for the head - should occupy about 60-75% of page. From this point on, have students press harder with the pencil as these lines will stay.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5J6ez2MuxNY/VLH5-YuiBhI/AAAAAAAAAX8/_tLXYR2h1Eg/s1600/05_circle.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5J6ez2MuxNY/VLH5-YuiBhI/AAAAAAAAAX8/_tLXYR2h1Eg/s1600/05_circle.png" height="200" width="148" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Add circle for head.</td></tr>
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7. Add two lines for the neck.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KeypAEOSlDc/VLH7hCSgTkI/AAAAAAAAAYI/-Rc1Go7NTQI/s1600/06_necklines.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KeypAEOSlDc/VLH7hCSgTkI/AAAAAAAAAYI/-Rc1Go7NTQI/s1600/06_necklines.png" height="200" width="148" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Add necklines.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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8. Add line for shoulders.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uMkOSlphoTc/VLH-hLZLreI/AAAAAAAAAYU/RRsGFdz2tJ8/s1600/07_shoulders.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uMkOSlphoTc/VLH-hLZLreI/AAAAAAAAAYU/RRsGFdz2tJ8/s1600/07_shoulders.png" height="200" width="148" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Add shoulder line.</td></tr>
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9. Add eyes/eyebrows, nose, mouth using geometric shapes or lines on the page.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JLE53_wzSS4/VLICv5cP08I/AAAAAAAAAYg/edyHwsCp8H0/s1600/08_face.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JLE53_wzSS4/VLICv5cP08I/AAAAAAAAAYg/edyHwsCp8H0/s1600/08_face.png" height="200" width="148" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Facial features added.</td></tr>
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10. Erase most of the background lines (behind the face, neck, shoulders).<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-S9WN2Osakms/VLIC4f2Rh_I/AAAAAAAAAYo/k0nqm2dEAP8/s1600/09_erasedbackground.png" height="200" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="148" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Erase most of background.</td></tr>
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11, Using the white oil pastel, go over all the lines in the face, neck, shoulders. This will act as a resist and help with containing colors within the shapes.<br />
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12. Pass out the watercolor paints, water, brushes. Using water only, have the students go over their entire page with the wider watercolor brush. While still wet, have them go over the entire area again with one color - not too dark so that other colors can been seen and added. This helps to unite the colors.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IQd7AmAOuDE/VLIDw3PeCPI/AAAAAAAAAY0/EJysBb-2svQ/s1600/10_wash.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IQd7AmAOuDE/VLIDw3PeCPI/AAAAAAAAAY0/EJysBb-2svQ/s1600/10_wash.png" height="200" width="148" /></a></div>
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13. Add color to the face, neck, shoulders. Can color in each shape, leave some the color of the wash, connect several areas together with one color, etc. At this point, aquarelle pencils can be used if desired.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-93XDHOT0gpQ/VLIF5v5Ta-I/AAAAAAAAAZA/WgTCKfKn6OA/s1600/headofamanflatpainted.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-93XDHOT0gpQ/VLIF5v5Ta-I/AAAAAAAAAZA/WgTCKfKn6OA/s1600/headofamanflatpainted.png" height="200" width="148" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Painting done!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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Below is a painting done in class by a 4th grade student.<br />
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<br />merrikin designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01369362440861447101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2523498025017193956.post-26469793222329078272014-10-20T09:27:00.000-07:002014-10-20T09:27:05.827-07:00Trying Out Concepts in Photoshop Prior to Building: Miniature Theater Set/Props for Merrikin Designs/Felt Artistic Creations Photo Background<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7KRbM4VpY-U/VEU0aqUg2VI/AAAAAAAAAVg/MpGrTTkgSYk/s1600/theater_test.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7KRbM4VpY-U/VEU0aqUg2VI/AAAAAAAAAVg/MpGrTTkgSYk/s1600/theater_test.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
The past few days I have spent working on a miniature theater (I often create props/sets for local productions and I just love the theater world in general) to be used as a set for my own 3D artwork (needle felted wool figures, fused glass jewelry, etc).<br />
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I've been playing with the idea of using blocks to support the fused glass barrettes to raise them up in the picture frame a bit. Originally they were to be black but then I started thinking about the crates I made for a production of Lady Pirates of Captain Bree. Perhaps they would work as a miniature prop as well? However I didn't want to spend the time painting a mini version only to find it detracted from the glass art so I decided to test out the idea in Photoshop first.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--DTw6fGU_iI/VEU11YJgDTI/AAAAAAAAAVs/FqWIMhvbr14/s1600/chest_ladypirates.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--DTw6fGU_iI/VEU11YJgDTI/AAAAAAAAAVs/FqWIMhvbr14/s1600/chest_ladypirates.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From Lady Pirates of Captain Bree Set.</td></tr>
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I began by isolating each component to test on stage in Photoshop using the lasso tool and then cutting/pasting into the theater file. Quickly added a color overlay and some shadows to give more of a realistic feel of what I could expect if all items were physically present.<br />
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End result: I think it works. Stay tuned - will show the actual painted blocks on the mini stage in my next post to see how they turned out. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W_1LAcQMrVw/VEU2sqdPSDI/AAAAAAAAAV8/Zu28KRiG8Ow/s1600/crates_theater.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W_1LAcQMrVw/VEU2sqdPSDI/AAAAAAAAAV8/Zu28KRiG8Ow/s1600/crates_theater.JPG" height="133" width="200" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CtJlwOYm324/VEU2is6risI/AAAAAAAAAV0/xwatCjU3wDM/s1600/barrette_theater.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CtJlwOYm324/VEU2is6risI/AAAAAAAAAV0/xwatCjU3wDM/s1600/barrette_theater.JPG" height="132" width="200" /></a></div>
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<br />merrikin designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01369362440861447101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2523498025017193956.post-41019663975634931622014-06-04T13:36:00.002-07:002014-06-04T19:10:08.190-07:00Needle Felted Wool - Creating Custom Pet Portraits/Sculpture - New Website, www.feltartistic.com<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nimbus (aka Silver Cloud), English Angora Rabbit</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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My latest work has been creating custom pet portraits in needle felt but before I discuss the felt work, let me introduce the newest member of our household. Meet Nimbus (at left), an English Angora rabbit. Only pet I've ever owned that I can write off as a business expense. With each daily brushing, I gather about a cotton ball's worth of angora wool. The fiber is unbelievably soft and since it is combined with merino wool, goes a long way. I find that angora works great in my latest endeavor, the dog sculptures.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jVp1wCWeznc/U49-TntbMyI/AAAAAAAAAU0/dqIFiUQtMe0/s1600/toby_reference_photos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jVp1wCWeznc/U49-TntbMyI/AAAAAAAAAU0/dqIFiUQtMe0/s1600/toby_reference_photos.jpg" height="200" width="160" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Toby, Havanese dog</td></tr>
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"Toby" is the second Havanese dog I have done. I love this particular breed and with the longer fur, it allowed me a chance to incorporate the angora fiber into the piece. I left the angora in its undyed state. The pure white of the wool seems to add a glowing quality. Can't wait to try dying it although it does felt (during the dye process) easier than Merino...might be tricky to dye. Will attempt the method as in my last post with gradual temperature shifts in the dye bath/rinse.<br />
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"Sable", a Mastiff, was done as a memorial sculpture. About 3" H x 3.5" W, Sable was built on a wire armature. Core wool then added and then as the form neared the desired size, dyed Merino wool was felted. No beads or polymer clay accents used...just fiber felted over wire. I love his pose with extended leg. Think he is my favorite felted animal to date.<br />
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Next on my felted projects list...a grumpy cat of sorts. Hope to have him done in a few days and will post the finished piece on this blog.<br />
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If you would like to order a custom pet portrait/sculpture, please visit my new site,<a href="http://www.feltartistic.com/custom.htm" target="_blank"> www.feltartistic.com</a> . I have full body sculptures (palm sized) or you may have a wearable pin/brooch made of your pet's head or shallow relief full body.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8RXb5GXqDeE/U1hI1oLaI9I/AAAAAAAAAT4/kSXwDz1CPfw/s1600/abominable+snow+bunny.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8RXb5GXqDeE/U1hI1oLaI9I/AAAAAAAAAT4/kSXwDz1CPfw/s1600/abominable+snow+bunny.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Abominable Snow Bunny</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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I have been doing quite of bit of needle felting lately (see my most recent figure, the Abominable Snow Bunny, at right) and have found that I need more color variations than what I can currently find pre-dyed roving. As I have plenty of Procion MX and Acid dye on hand for use on silk, I decided to try it on wool roving since it is also a natural fiber.<br />
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My next felt project is going to be a frog but I found I did not have the greens on hand that I wish to use. I took small jars and put them in a pot with water. I mixed small quantities of dye in each year with vinegar and water. The next step was to wet the wool with room temperature water and then submerge in the jar. Once the wool/dyes are in place in the pot, I see the stove burner temperature to "3" which is just below a low simmer. Once the water is hot to the touch, I set the timer for 40 minutes. After 40 minutes, the burner is turned off and allowed to cool to room temperature. When cool (usually 4-5 hours), rinse in room temperature water, and allow to dry.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mQ3MBaETJ60/U1hK0FvbYUI/AAAAAAAAAUE/N-H2LF5oLm8/s1600/dyes02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mQ3MBaETJ60/U1hK0FvbYUI/AAAAAAAAAUE/N-H2LF5oLm8/s1600/dyes02.jpg" height="200" width="163" /></a></div>
Here are a few things I discovered through experimentation:<br />
<ul>
<li>I found I had more consistent coverage with dye when the roving was wet with plain water rather than tossed into the dye dry.</li>
<li>Braiding the roving before submerging in dyes also helps with preventing felting of wool.</li>
<li>When removing the roving before it is allowed to cool to room temperature in the pot, it tends to felt (see image below. Roving to the left of the red line was removed from pot while still hot and rinsed in warm water. Roving to the right of the line was allowed to cool to room temperature).</li>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mbSxeg7ZF_A/U1hMQuvOGBI/AAAAAAAAAUQ/VTmUD53a2q8/s1600/dyes01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mbSxeg7ZF_A/U1hMQuvOGBI/AAAAAAAAAUQ/VTmUD53a2q8/s1600/dyes01.jpg" height="417" width="640" /></a></div>
merrikin designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01369362440861447101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2523498025017193956.post-59252711421134613582013-07-18T10:00:00.000-07:002013-07-18T10:13:24.086-07:00Color Exploration in Digital Media: Using Adobe Illustrator in Creating Color Harmonies (Color Grid)A few weeks ago, I made a 5x5 square grid comprised of 4 colors in each corner and the resulting blends in the sections between (<a href="http://www.artejournal.com/2013/06/stuck-in-color-rut-try-using-color-grid.html#.UeebI1Dn-M8" target="_blank">see post here</a>). This week, I have created the digital version of a color grid using Adobe Illustrator.<br />
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Like with the pencil exercise, I again selected four colors to serve as the corners. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0DJLX9Kr1Rs/Ueeb9HEEr_I/AAAAAAAAASY/DI27Cqc5Xtg/s1600/digcolorgrid4colors.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0DJLX9Kr1Rs/Ueeb9HEEr_I/AAAAAAAAASY/DI27Cqc5Xtg/s1600/digcolorgrid4colors.JPG" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8VoLbHHw4YY/UeefluraHXI/AAAAAAAAASo/fdi0pusIIks/s1600/digcolorgridillustrator.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8VoLbHHw4YY/UeefluraHXI/AAAAAAAAASo/fdi0pusIIks/s200/digcolorgridillustrator.JPG" width="144" /></a>I recommend keeping track of the RGB (Red Green Blue) data, it makes it easier to recreate the color at a later time. Using the Gradient menu, change the first point color to one of the four colors and then the last point of the gradient to the color located at the opposite end of the grid. Create a shape away from the grid area (this will be deleted later) and fill with the gradient. With a color identification tool, determine the RGB values of the midpoint value of the row. With midpoint rectangle in the row selected, fill with shape with the color generated by entering the RGB numbers. Repeat with the 2nd rectangle (before midpoint) and 4th rectangle (after midpoint). Repeat for all sides (i.e., finding the blends of all four colors before determining the blends toward the center.<br />
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Final grid should look something like this: <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7R0UOk7Xx6k/Ueef0N7JiaI/AAAAAAAAASw/vuks9xvZCVY/s1600/digcolorgridfinalwithouttext_musser.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="245" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7R0UOk7Xx6k/Ueef0N7JiaI/AAAAAAAAASw/vuks9xvZCVY/s400/digcolorgridfinalwithouttext_musser.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Here are a few simple compositions using colors generated from the grid above:</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1pse_1Rlpvw/UeegQLlbaaI/AAAAAAAAAS4/yFOwCOn4cIw/s1600/digcolorgrid_compositions_musser.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="116" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1pse_1Rlpvw/UeegQLlbaaI/AAAAAAAAAS4/yFOwCOn4cIw/s320/digcolorgrid_compositions_musser.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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More digital color grids to come soon in "Digital Color Harmonies: RGB/CMYK Color Grid Palettes (Nature Vol.1)" (working title) by Christine Musser. Available Fall 2013 in print, Kindle Fire, and pdf versions.</div>
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merrikin designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01369362440861447101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2523498025017193956.post-37074176753269728772013-06-21T21:45:00.000-07:002013-06-21T21:45:12.706-07:00Stuck in a Color Rut? Try Using a Color Grid.Whenever I find myself repeatedly (and often unknowingly) reusing the same color palette and find I am in need of a change, this exercise often helps me break out of my color rut. I think of it as an artist's equivalent to an opera singer/musician practicing scales.<br />
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This can be done with a variety of media (my next post will feature a digital color grid using Adobe Illustrator) - I have chosen to use Prismacolor pencils for three reasons. 1. You can choose a specific color that will be consistent over time and record it for future reference (I use the three digit number listed at the end of the pencil), 2. For their color mixing properties/ability to manipulate blends by layering, and 3. Can transport a wide range of colors and not worry about paint spills.<br />
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<strong>Creating a Color Grid:</strong><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tA28-MKU1uI/UcUpSQ5XXvI/AAAAAAAAAR4/0zazmBRJqFc/s1600/colorgrid01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="184" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tA28-MKU1uI/UcUpSQ5XXvI/AAAAAAAAAR4/0zazmBRJqFc/s200/colorgrid01.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steps 2-3 complete. Beginning #4.</td></tr>
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<ol>
<li>Lightly draw a 5 x 5 square grid with pencil (2b or H will do). </li>
<li>Choose four colors to use as base colors. Place one color in each corner.</li>
<li>In the middle of each row, mix a color that is between the two end colors (the hue should be the middle point - not leaning toward one end more than the other). If using colored pencils, you may want to lightly dampen a cotton swab with rubbing alcohol or Turpenoid to remove some of the colored pencil buildup in between layering strokes.</li>
<li>Do the same all around the outside blocks of the grid, filling in the blank squares with the color mixture that is the midpoint between the adjacent hues.</li>
<li>Find the center color by gradually building up layers of the four colors and looking at the colors that need to meet in the middle (vertical, horizontal, diagonal). Depending on the four colors selected, this may often be a chromatic gray.</li>
<li>Lastly, fill in the surrounding inner squares. **It often helps to squint at the colors - if one stands out too much, then the gap in hue shift is too great**</li>
</ol>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-P8wKqPd2LKI/UcUpWk564HI/AAAAAAAAASA/Zd4yF_Wn0wY/s1600/colorgrid02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-P8wKqPd2LKI/UcUpWk564HI/AAAAAAAAASA/Zd4yF_Wn0wY/s200/colorgrid02.jpg" width="194" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Step 4 complete.</td></tr>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DscIJS4bNJ8/UcUpZOck5KI/AAAAAAAAASI/ypwkETA_DPE/s1600/colorgrid03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="305" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DscIJS4bNJ8/UcUpZOck5KI/AAAAAAAAASI/ypwkETA_DPE/s320/colorgrid03.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
merrikin designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01369362440861447101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2523498025017193956.post-79094016300352651962013-05-31T14:31:00.001-07:002013-05-31T14:31:12.426-07:00"Flocking" - Great Fundraising Idea Using Plastic Lawn Flamingos: Temporary Yard Art Installation<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X_CWybNDTX8/UakPtdPYkkI/AAAAAAAAARE/29cUZeb7bfU/s1600/flocked_house.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="357" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X_CWybNDTX8/UakPtdPYkkI/AAAAAAAAARE/29cUZeb7bfU/s400/flocked_house.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
On May 25, 2013, I woke up to find I had been "flocked." <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qcqG4HT9cd4/UakUwR4lwXI/AAAAAAAAARQ/VyNpTjgUfJA/s1600/flocked_letter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qcqG4HT9cd4/UakUwR4lwXI/AAAAAAAAARQ/VyNpTjgUfJA/s320/flocked_letter.jpg" width="241" /></a>For those not familiar with "flocking", it is an excellent way of fundraising with no waste and relies solely on volunteer labor. In our neighborhood, the flamingos are placed by a local Girl Scout Troop who arrive at a home after dark to arrange a prepaid number of pink birds on the front lawn of an local address designated on a form (see photo at bottom of page) filled out by a previous Flockee. Included in the group of flamingos, is one large specimen with a plastic bag attached. In the bag, is a letter (see photo) and form which will enable the recipient to surprise "flock" another person(s) of their choosing. The birds will stay until 7-10 pm that night and then the Girl Scout troop will pick them up and place them at the next destination.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NYFCKI1i8zw/UakUy-yP80I/AAAAAAAAARY/zCCWgF9Htdg/s1600/flocked_single.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NYFCKI1i8zw/UakUy-yP80I/AAAAAAAAARY/zCCWgF9Htdg/s200/flocked_single.jpg" width="150" /></a>Even though we do not get to keep the flamingos, I found this to be a creative way to raise money and a cheerful way to start the day. I've seen various flock sightings in the neighborhood, some very creatively placed flamingos peeking out of bushes, interacting with each other, and in my case, eating weeds (In my defense, there has been a LOT of rain the past few weeks. Okay, and yes, I tend to be remiss in certain landscaping duties. If only the rabbits that plague our yard would eat weeds instead of any plant that costs over $5!).<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WXcaTwIORI0/UakU1a6wpWI/AAAAAAAAARg/dUMvP0kia3Q/s1600/flocked_form.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="167" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WXcaTwIORI0/UakU1a6wpWI/AAAAAAAAARg/dUMvP0kia3Q/s320/flocked_form.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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merrikin designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01369362440861447101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2523498025017193956.post-84103100625229201582013-05-14T10:39:00.000-07:002013-05-14T10:39:42.435-07:00Lesson: Elementary Class Group Abstract Painting Based on Jackson Pollock<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CqV89QX2ZWY/UZJwhof-6xI/AAAAAAAAAQ0/ajFfIWoW5Dk/s1600/Pollack_inprogress_painting_artejournal-com.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CqV89QX2ZWY/UZJwhof-6xI/AAAAAAAAAQ0/ajFfIWoW5Dk/s640/Pollack_inprogress_painting_artejournal-com.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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This was a great end of the school year Art Smart lesson for a 5th grade class. We looked at the paintings of Jackson Pollock and then had the students take turns in groups of 4-5 and spent 5 minutes each at the canvas. Tools used were sticks, brushes and paint filled bottles. Paint: Tempera. Support: Gessoed stretched canvas (bought as stretched canvas but may be less expensive if you do it yourself).<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L6fDVJXBOv8/UZJwaTqfCgI/AAAAAAAAAQs/4I6JCYu8VVw/s1600/Pollack_finished_painting_artejournal-com.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L6fDVJXBOv8/UZJwaTqfCgI/AAAAAAAAAQs/4I6JCYu8VVw/s320/Pollack_finished_painting_artejournal-com.jpg" width="320" /></a>Finished painting was donated to the school as a "farewell" present from the graduating 5th grade class but project could be done as a "thank you" to a teacher, parent, etc.<br />
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Recommendations:<br />
<ul><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VohAhDIprto/UZJwRR6YxjI/AAAAAAAAAQk/YYRHSk2BaNQ/s1600/Pollack_detailed_painting_artejournal-com.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VohAhDIprto/UZJwRR6YxjI/AAAAAAAAAQk/YYRHSk2BaNQ/s320/Pollack_detailed_painting_artejournal-com.jpg" width="320" /><div style="text-align: left;" unselectable="on">
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<li>Give parents a day or two notice about this project so that kids can arrive wearing old clothes (and shoes). Tempera will stain (and if using acrylic, hardens quickly. Rinse immediately).</li>
<li>We used tempera paint but if you have access to acrylic, I would use that instead. Tempera has a tendency to crack if applied too heavily.</li>
<li>Prepare a space in advance where the painting can lie flat and undisturbed for 1-2 days.</li>
<li>Have at least 2 (3 is better) parents/docents on hand. One to man the paint refill station. One to <strong>closely</strong> monitor the group at the painting. We had one child while the docent's back was turned take a large brush and write his name in 18" high letters on the canvas (luckily we had enough time to paint over it before the class end). Also to watch for kids that tend to get carried away with gestural strokes and need to make sure inadvertent paint fights aren't started. </li>
<li>Also have drawing materials out for the kids not currently in the painting group so they have a way to occupy their time. </li>
<li>Use 5 or fewer colors. Suggest one color per each student in each group.</li>
<li>If I were to do this project over again, I suggest use the 3" brush only at the very beginning to cover the surface and then use the sticks/bottles. Otherwise, some of the detailed drips and spills may be painted over with the large brush later on.</li>
</ul>
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merrikin designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01369362440861447101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2523498025017193956.post-20016560984098590962013-05-07T12:14:00.000-07:002013-05-08T09:36:33.496-07:00Columbine Illustration using Adobe Illustrator and Real Colors (Kindle Fire app)<div style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Vt8lXawyo-8/UYlN40fL3zI/AAAAAAAAAPw/Li12gq0XNzs/s1600/columbine_realcolor_musser.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Vt8lXawyo-8/UYlN40fL3zI/AAAAAAAAAPw/Li12gq0XNzs/s640/columbine_realcolor_musser.jpg" width="299" /></a>My last post discussed generating a limited color palette in Adobe Illustrator based off of 5 dominant hues in a photo imported into Real Colors (an application on Kindle Fire).</div>
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After opening Illustrator, I entered the RGB numbers from each color and saved all five swatches in a customized palette. Using the colors from RC (and their tints/shades), I created the illustration below.<br />
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All in all, I found it an interesting way to increase one's color knowledge - especially as an artist, there are times when certain hues reappear in our work (I know I often get in a color rut without realizing it). This was a great way to force myself to a limited and new palette. <br />
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Real Colors also works with the camera on the Kindle Fire device so I can take pictures on location - a nice, easy way to capture color information locally. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="371" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-i-R3jnJweI8/UYp-sMx7FEI/AAAAAAAAAQM/smGo8QSbBLI/s400/columbine_realcolor_camusser.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Columbine illustration (Adobe Illustrator). <a href="http://www.christinemusser.com/">www.christinemusser.com</a></td></tr>
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merrikin designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01369362440861447101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2523498025017193956.post-18937751881154359562013-04-25T17:18:00.000-07:002013-04-26T14:27:47.213-07:00From Pencil Sketch to Digital Illustration: Columbine Study<div class="mobile-photo">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H4nETH1ALNs/UXnICD96v9I/AAAAAAAAAPU/4tSWi_eqokk/s1600/Thumba_2013-04-25_17-05-49-760071.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5870943527004454866" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H4nETH1ALNs/UXnICD96v9I/AAAAAAAAAPU/4tSWi_eqokk/s320/Thumba_2013-04-25_17-05-49-760071.jpg" /></a></div>
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Too nice a day to stay inside so I decided to work in my garden. Saw that the columbines I planted 7 years ago are still reseeding and in bloom again. I always found this particular flower to have such an interesting form - thought it would make an good subject for a digital illustration.<br />
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Over the next few days the plan is to photograph the flower and import it into Real Color (which will generate a RGB color palette featuring the 5 most dominant hues) and then scan today's pencil sketch into Adobe Illustrator CS5 as the base layer on which to build my illustration. I'll use the 5 colors (and resulting variations) produced by Real Color in Illustrator and see how the RC palette looks when applied to a drawing.<br />
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merrikin designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01369362440861447101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2523498025017193956.post-72737227376460300032013-04-18T17:50:00.000-07:002013-04-18T17:50:07.075-07:00System 96 Reactive Glass Experiments pt 2: Blue Topaz, Chambray Opal, Payne's Gray, Cobalt, Turquoise, Opal<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lgy1GyqoqBY/UXCRG6tAtOI/AAAAAAAAAOw/42FdBZZgqAc/s1600/glasscolors.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="84" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lgy1GyqoqBY/UXCRG6tAtOI/AAAAAAAAAOw/42FdBZZgqAc/s320/glasscolors.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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My shipment of the new System 96 colors (Chambray Opal and Payne's Gray) came in a few days ago and was excited to try them out. Curious to see if they have enough copper to react with red reactive glasses. As you can see in the sample (Reactive clear top layer extends to red line. To right of red line is clear 3mm glass) below, the answer is "no"...however, they do fuse very nicely - lovely, subtle colors. I can see using these two in the near future with Pewter and Charcoal opal. Some interesting reactions occured with Turquoise stringers and 24 gauge copper wire producing strong dark red outlines.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Sv2EJDxfGV8/UXCSE4WUALI/AAAAAAAAAO4/fUE3zKxyfKs/s1600/reactive-clear-vertical.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="83" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Sv2EJDxfGV8/UXCSE4WUALI/AAAAAAAAAO4/fUE3zKxyfKs/s320/reactive-clear-vertical.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Another relatively new color in the System 96 line, Blue Topaz is a cathedral glass that is supposed to have a high copper content which would produce a strong reaction. Oddly enough in my experiment below (top 1/2 clear glass, bottom 1/2 reactive clear), it had little color shift. It may have been that the elements I had placed in between the top layer and the blue glass might have effected the reaction. I'll have to try this again without inclusions (copper wire, white and cobalt confetti) and see what happens. Beautiful color, especially when light passes through it.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CQoIQUN3Lzc/UXCTUoIR8kI/AAAAAAAAAPA/-Y1NzHPMuJc/s1600/reactive-and-clear-blue-topaz.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="117" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CQoIQUN3Lzc/UXCTUoIR8kI/AAAAAAAAAPA/-Y1NzHPMuJc/s320/reactive-and-clear-blue-topaz.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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merrikin designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01369362440861447101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2523498025017193956.post-1765180766114624422013-04-14T22:56:00.000-07:002013-04-14T22:56:39.327-07:00Artist of Note: Philip Worthington, "Shadow Monsters" at Seattle EMP: Interactive Art Meets Technology<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CQG2akgGJbA/UWqEHnVexqI/AAAAAAAAAOQ/X2qL_q5FE5Q/s1600/shadowmonsters_artejournal_01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CQG2akgGJbA/UWqEHnVexqI/AAAAAAAAAOQ/X2qL_q5FE5Q/s320/shadowmonsters_artejournal_01.jpg" width="320" /></a>Recently, I had the pleasure of seeing the Shadow Monsters installation at the Experience Music Project in Seattle. Shadow Monsters is the work of Philip Worthington, a British artist, who creates shadow puppets that are altered by visual recognition software. When a person stands in front of a large light box, a shadow puppet is projected onto a large screen only the images change with movement. Eyes appear in closed counter spaces, moving noodle-like appendages grow from heads, and fangs appear in open angle areas (such as a hand with thumb and fingers at 45 degree angle). Sounds were also written into the program, such as growling noises for creatures that have open jaws (as in the first photo).<br />
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I have to say, I'm not sure which was more interesting to watch...the shadow puppets or the people as they watch their shadows being transformed on screen.<br />
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<br />merrikin designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01369362440861447101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2523498025017193956.post-51374686137856330992013-04-05T11:53:00.000-07:002013-04-05T11:59:48.359-07:00Wonderland Prop/Set: Completed and Installed. Papier Mache, Acrylic Paint on Board, 2013<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RxtHC0BAYS4/UV8ZoCA0_CI/AAAAAAAAAN8/zy2YI50j7ek/s1600/wonderland_final_stagelights.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RxtHC0BAYS4/UV8ZoCA0_CI/AAAAAAAAAN8/zy2YI50j7ek/s1600/wonderland_final_stagelights.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RxtHC0BAYS4/UV8ZoCA0_CI/AAAAAAAAAN8/zy2YI50j7ek/s1600/wonderland_final_stagelights.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RxtHC0BAYS4/UV8ZoCA0_CI/AAAAAAAAAN8/zy2YI50j7ek/s1600/wonderland_final_stagelights.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="241" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RxtHC0BAYS4/UV8ZoCA0_CI/AAAAAAAAAN8/zy2YI50j7ek/s400/wonderland_final_stagelights.jpg" title="www.merrikindesigns.com/costumesprops.aspx" width="400" /></a></a></a></div>
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RxtHC0BAYS4/UV8ZoCA0_CI/AAAAAAAAAN8/zy2YI50j7ek/s1600/wonderland_final_stagelights.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a>Wonderland prop completed and installed, April 3, 2013.<br />
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Some changes that I ended up making from the original concept sketch:<br />
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<li>Instead of two large front panels (4x4') and a side panel to cover braces, I decided to do four panels (3 front, 1 side). Was easier to transport to stage in my car without damage.</li>
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Fewer details in the background painting. Left as more gestural/abstract to let the papier mache work stand out and also not to detract attention from the actors.</div>
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Decided to reuse some of the left over tissue from the acacia tree prop as grass accents near the papier mache rock border.</div>
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Rocks were added once the prop placed on stage (final position). Attached button shanks to unseen side and strung the rocks together in four lengths through the shank holes. After strung, rocks were attached to foamcore using zipper pull findings (which were fixed to the foamcore using 24 gauge steel wire).</div>
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<a href="http://www.merrikindesigns.com/costumesprops.aspx" target="_blank">www.merrikindesigns.com/costumesprops.aspx</a>merrikin designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01369362440861447101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2523498025017193956.post-24439395250655133712013-03-31T11:04:00.000-07:002013-03-31T11:14:48.279-07:00Wonderland Prop: Papier Mache Flower Armature Construction (Roses, Tiger Lilies, Daisies)<div class="mobile-photo">
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With the lattice and rocks complete, time to begin work on the floral pieces (roses, tiger lilies, daisies). <br />
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Using tin foil, foam, duct tape, 18 gauge wire, and poster board, the flower armature takes shape by adding one petal at a time. If an organic feel is desired (and depending on the size of the petal), the base can be left as posterboard rather than covered with duct tape before the paste is applied. Slight warping will occur but it does help to give the flower a more natural feel. Also, I find it best to place the flower face down in a bowl and apply the paste to the back first which will help the petals maintain a flared form.<br />
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Today is the last day for the papier mache portion - need to prime, paint, and deliver in about 30 hours. I plan to start painting the background while the flowers are drying to make the best use of my time<br />
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Tomorrow's photos will feature the background painting and final piece. <br />
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merrikin designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01369362440861447101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2523498025017193956.post-68125259329735659042013-03-29T10:12:00.000-07:002013-03-29T10:13:09.063-07:00Wonderland Prop Progess: Paper Mache on Individual Components<p class="mobile-photo"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wXKiuddhzhg/UVXLpdKHF8I/AAAAAAAAAMw/WSJzoDQFeu4/s1600/Thumba_2013-03-29_10-02-30-789063.jpg"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wXKiuddhzhg/UVXLpdKHF8I/AAAAAAAAAMw/WSJzoDQFeu4/s320/Thumba_2013-03-29_10-02-30-789063.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5860814403154679746" /></a></p><div><div style="font-family: Calibri,sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">I am very glad to see the sun out this morning (not a frequent occurrence in the Pacific Northwest I assure you) otherwise I would be hovering over the papier mache parts of this prop with hair dryer in one hand, fan in the other, and vigorously blowing with as much hot air I could muster out of my lungs to get it to dry as fast as possible. Making progress however...my favorite part so far is the little pawn garden statuary constructed out of balloons, chicken wire, duct tape, and memory foam (with papier mache on top layer). Another photo to come tomorrow.<br><br><br></div></div>merrikin designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01369362440861447101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2523498025017193956.post-63702922584522091922013-03-27T11:56:00.001-07:002013-03-27T11:56:44.534-07:00Wonderland Garden Scene Prop, Papier Mache<p class="mobile-photo"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IPJ9The_ueQ/UVNA7OuJa4I/AAAAAAAAAMY/s04nVRwssh8/s1600/Thumba_2013-03-27_11-34-33-704535.jpg"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IPJ9The_ueQ/UVNA7OuJa4I/AAAAAAAAAMY/s04nVRwssh8/s320/Thumba_2013-03-27_11-34-33-704535.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5860098926447258498" /></a></p><div><div style="font-family: Calibri,sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">A new stage set/prop project begins! This is a garden scene for Wonderland which is a modern adaptation of Lewis Carroll's Through the Looking Glass. The characters of the Rose, Daisy, and Tiger Lily will stand behind the prop.<br><br> I've already started making the rocks for the foreground but needed to resolve painted background area this morning in order to determine how many papier mache flowers will be needed.<br><br>Some of the plants will be painted directly on foamcore board supported by wire mesh and other parts, such as the trellis and roses/tiger lilies/daisies will be in 3/4 round papier mache. At the base in the front, the rocks will be placed to create a garden border effect.<br><br>Final to be in 3 panels due to size/transport issues and mounted to a 4x8 wood panel supported by three braces on back side<br><br>More photos to come in the next few days.<br></div></div>merrikin designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01369362440861447101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2523498025017193956.post-52371995434021674392013-03-22T14:18:00.001-07:002013-03-22T14:18:25.568-07:00Fused Glass Earrings as a Result of Collaboration <p class="mobile-photo"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1dnt7oOnUxY/UUzKodCJtKI/AAAAAAAAAME/LNgC6230yrU/s1600/Thumba_2013-03-22_14-10-36-705568.jpg"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1dnt7oOnUxY/UUzKodCJtKI/AAAAAAAAAME/LNgC6230yrU/s320/Thumba_2013-03-22_14-10-36-705568.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5858280011639403682" /></a></p><div><div style="font-family: Calibri,sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">A few weeks ago, I posted a sketch of an earring design my 11 year old son came up with...here is the first version in fused glass based off of his drawing. I made these as a gift for his music teacher. If you look closely, you can see small eighth notes within the glass.<br></div></div>merrikin designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01369362440861447101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2523498025017193956.post-26185819177711940142013-03-21T13:37:00.003-07:002013-03-21T13:37:23.924-07:00Favorite Art Related Books<span style="color: #20124d;">Note: this post was previously listed in February 2013 - the link was failing so reposting again here.</span><br />
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If I had to list the books I reference most often for my artwork and for inspiration, it would look something like this:<br />
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<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Art-Spirit-Robert-Henri/dp/0465002633/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1362076832&sr=8-1&keywords=henri+the+art+spirit" target="_blank">The Art Spirit by Robert Henri</a>. A must read for all artists. I've had my copy since my days at RISD. Great inspirational work about art and life.</li>
<li>Drawn to Life, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Drawn-Life-Classes-Stanchfield-Lectures/dp/0240810961/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1362077087&sr=1-1&keywords=drawn+to+life" target="_blank">Volume 1</a> and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Drawn-Life-Classes-Stanchfield-Lectures/dp/0240811070/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1362077087&sr=1-2&keywords=drawn+to+life" target="_blank">Volume 2</a>. A recent addition to my library. Fantastic collection of lectures by Walt Stanchfield (master Disney animator - influenced the likes of Brad Bird and Tim Burton)- not just for animators but for anyone interested in drawing. </li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Paul-Klee-Notebooks-Thinking-Volumes/dp/0879514663/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1362077888&sr=1-2&keywords=klee+thinking+eye" target="_blank">The Thinking Eye and the Nature of Nature by Paul Klee</a>. Klee - one of my top four favorite artists of all time (Wassily Kandinsky, Pablo Picasso, and Alexander Calder are the other three). I was very fortunate as a student to have a part time job at the RISD library. One of my favorite tasks was reshelving the books housed in the locked case section (hundreds of rare volumes, include first editions and handmade artist's books) which is where I discovered these books and would return on my days off to read at leisure. A few years after graduation when I was living in Seattle and in between jobs, I happened to walk past a bookstore that had a set in the shop window. Apparently, there was a limited print run in the early 1990's - it was the only time I saw them available in a store since. One of the best purchases I have ever made - although at the time since I was unemployed it was probably not the most practical expense (but I would do it again if given the chance!).</li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Concerning-Spiritual-Art-Wassily-Kandinsky/dp/1619491532/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1362078554&sr=1-1&keywords=kandinsky+concerning+the+spiritual+in+art" target="_blank">Wassily Kandinsky's Concerning the Spiritual in Art</a>. A call for abstract artists. Like Klee, Kandinsky was interested in portraying the inner life. Excellent read.</li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Master-Figure-Drawing-Robert-Beverly/dp/0823030148/ref=sr_1_4?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1362078812&sr=1-4&keywords=robert+beverly+hale" target="_blank">Master Class in Figure Drawing by Robert Beverly Hale</a>. Learning anatomy from studying the great artists through the eyes of one of the best instructors on the subject. </li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Complete-Expression-published-Watson-Guptill-Hardcover/dp/B008V0XN3M/ref=sr_1_3?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1362079146&sr=1-3&keywords=gary+faigin" target="_blank">The Artist's Complete Guide to Facial Expression by Gary Faigin</a>. A practical reference book that I utilize often, especially for <a href="http://www.christinemusser.com/" target="_blank">illustration</a> and <a href="http://www.merrikindesigns.com/switchplates-clocks.aspx" target="_blank">polymer clay</a> work.</li>
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merrikin designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01369362440861447101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2523498025017193956.post-63985189806222656982013-03-18T17:55:00.002-07:002013-03-18T17:55:46.942-07:00Lesson (Elementary): Introduction to Carving: Creating Totems in Plaster<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">Although this lesson takes some planning (plaster blocks should be made at least a few days ahead of time. I had the 4th graders help me at the end of the prior month's class by mixing and pouring the plaster mixture into cut milk cartons (about 2-3" high, trimmed bottoms of 1/2 gallon milk containers), it is a great tie in to studies of Pacific NW Indian tribes.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">For this lesson, I presented a slide lecture (</span><a href="http://www.merrikindesigns.com/images/totemlesson.pdf" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">pdf version of lesson available here</span></a><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">) discussing the various animal totems along with examples of Native American carvings and basic introduction to sculpture (how is sculpture different than painting, how it depends on light to define its form, the importance of shadows, types of sculpture (subtractive), etc). I gave them a homework assignment (after we made the plaster blocks as noted above) that listed the animals to choose from and at the bottom of the page, an empty 3.5" x 3.5" square. In this square, they were to do a line drawing of the totem they wished to carve.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">During the next art class, the students then cut out their 3.5 squares from their homework sheet and with a dulled pencil, placed their drawing face up on top of the plaster block and firmly traced over their sketch. Then using a file, rasp, and flat head screwdriver, they began to remove the excess material and see their totem take form.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">Unfortunately for our class, the school did not have available wall space when it came time to hang their work. The display ideally was to have the students' totems mounted on chipboard with narrow margins and have then stacked vertically directly on top of one another to resemble a totem pole.</span></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">Be aware, if you are limited to a one hour class period, you may need 2 classes for all students to finish carving. For most kids, it is their first exposure to carving - they loved this project. You may want to check the drawings first to make sure they are not too detailed and able to be carved without frustration.</span></o:p></div>
merrikin designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01369362440861447101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2523498025017193956.post-58702696862863363662013-03-14T14:46:00.000-07:002013-03-17T16:59:26.002-07:00Acacia Tree Prop: Completed and Installed<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QZOTb0OjL5Y/UUJEyAYdqwI/AAAAAAAAALA/IpQh-WvZjYQ/s1600/acaciatreefinished01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QZOTb0OjL5Y/UUJEyAYdqwI/AAAAAAAAALA/IpQh-WvZjYQ/s320/acaciatreefinished01.jpg" width="320" /></a>Number 1 rule for creating props/installations for theater: Always have a Plan B (contingency plan) for last minute changes.<br />
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In this case, I arrived at the school and found that the stage location had changed to allow room for the drummers. Unfortunately, since the tree as it was laid out required 6 fixed points above to anchor limbs, this meant the tree had to undergo reconstruction on site since the center fixed point had shifted. With the center moved, this limbs to either side would no longer hang correctly (one side stretched out too far, the other side would not have enough room for the limb to spread out..<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Zpy9U5QTKj8/UUJE0FAYBCI/AAAAAAAAALI/28tJ08KXqqk/s1600/acaciatreefinished02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Zpy9U5QTKj8/UUJE0FAYBCI/AAAAAAAAALI/28tJ08KXqqk/s200/acaciatreefinished02.jpg" width="150" /></a>Luckily, I recently discovered double sided duct tape and was able to affix painted pieces of drawing paper and reroute some of the smaller limbs and cover the tears and new attachments with the duct tape. After which, I applied another coat of brown acrylic to blend in the tape with the existing papier mache structure.<br />
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merrikin designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01369362440861447101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2523498025017193956.post-70483778655048593142013-03-11T14:21:00.002-07:002013-03-11T14:21:51.713-07:00Acacia Tree Theater Prop: Armature Complete<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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Six rolls of duct tape (reinforce wire structure and smooth out the hexagon shape of the wire) and two rolls of chicken wire later, the armature for the tree is complete. Now to cover with papier mache...merrikin designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01369362440861447101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2523498025017193956.post-59360155784112034722013-03-07T16:12:00.000-08:002013-03-07T16:12:47.760-08:00Acacia Tree Prop: Armature (Chicken Wire/Duct Tape)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1IbJ3Ups2uo/UTkrHpvlmXI/AAAAAAAAAKg/gmUZW4JNwVQ/s1600/acaciatreearmature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1IbJ3Ups2uo/UTkrHpvlmXI/AAAAAAAAAKg/gmUZW4JNwVQ/s320/acaciatreearmature.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
Constructed out of chicken wire with 18 gauge steel wire and cable ties for joining section wire branches, the armature is about 40% complete. Duct tape (and later plastic bags/kraft paper) applied over chicken wire to further increase support and smooth out the surface so that the pattern of the wire does not show through the papier mache.<br />
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Since there will be three stepstools at the base of the tree, the bottom four feet of armature (seen here as exposed wire. Duct tape starts at the 4 ft 1 inch mark). There is a height limitation with the ceiling in the garage where I am constructing the prop so the next stage will be removing the bottom 4 foot section in order for the second trunk segment to rest on the floor. This will enable me to build the upper branches so they reach the correct height when installed at the school.merrikin designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01369362440861447101noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2523498025017193956.post-71779657550710497512013-03-06T22:51:00.000-08:002013-03-06T22:51:13.154-08:00Theater Prop - 20ft wide acacia tree in papier mache - Grid/SketchWith the exception of tomorrow night's post which will be an art lesson for elementary students re: pointillism, the next few days will feature images and notes regarding the construction of an Acacia tree prop needed for a local elementary school production.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-K6Ax0KVfMQM/UTg2cC9SXJI/AAAAAAAAAKQ/ahKHBRbkZpM/s1600/africanstarstreesketch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-K6Ax0KVfMQM/UTg2cC9SXJI/AAAAAAAAAKQ/ahKHBRbkZpM/s200/africanstarstreesketch.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sketch of Acacia tree over grid. </td></tr>
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Here is a rough list of the steps I like to take in creating props:<br />
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1. Meet with the director and discuss the needs for the production. This includes overall look, size, color, budget, and deadline.<br />
2. Make a few sketches to run by the director to verify the prop you intend to create has the look and feel that they also had in mind. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WB5BWc-rE2I/UTg2W96AiSI/AAAAAAAAAKI/jjpo8wDZjVU/s1600/gridgym.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WB5BWc-rE2I/UTg2W96AiSI/AAAAAAAAAKI/jjpo8wDZjVU/s200/gridgym.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
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3. Take measurements. Take measurements again. The old adage "Measure twice, cut once" applies here.<br />
4. I like to take photographs of the setting and then create a grid in Photoshop to fully visualize the space (top photo). I then attach a sheet of tracing paper over the grid photo (tracing paper as it is thin enough to see the grid underneath) and sketch the prop to scale (bottom photo). This tree will be one of the larger props (20 ft w x 10-12 ft h x 4-5 ft deep) I have done (<a href="http://www.merrikindesigns.com/costumesprops.aspx">www.merrikindesigns.com/costumesprops.aspx</a> to see the pirate ship which is the largest at 30 feet in length)<br />
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Tomorrow's post: Creating the skeletal framework.<br />
<img height="72" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WB5BWc-rE2I/UTg2W96AiSI/AAAAAAAAAKI/jjpo8wDZjVU/s200/gridgym.jpg" style="filter: alpha(opacity=30); left: 221px; opacity: 0.3; position: absolute; top: 363px;" width="96" /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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merrikin designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01369362440861447101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2523498025017193956.post-59600936684592440052013-02-27T14:07:00.003-08:002013-02-27T20:45:28.334-08:00Collaborative Art Projects with Kids<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vXlQ-_5agek/US54ZSFS3AI/AAAAAAAAAJ4/Fi7eBls3IOw/s1600/erniecollabfeb272013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vXlQ-_5agek/US54ZSFS3AI/AAAAAAAAAJ4/Fi7eBls3IOw/s320/erniecollabfeb272013.jpg" width="240" /></a> My son, Ernie, gave me a sketch this morning and suggested it would make a great earring design - and then asked if he could make money from the sale if I used the design based on his drawing.<br />
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Actually it's not a bad idea...might be a good way to encourage creativity, learn to work with others, and give a means of earning extra money through work efforts. And to encourage saving, I have offered the following deal to my son: Receive 25% of the gross sale if the money is wanted now or put the money in savings for college and earn 50%.<br />
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Today's page from my sketchbook features Ernie's original drawing (upper left), a modified drawing with notes on possible design changes and then a rough polymer clay version. Not sure if I will keep as polymer clay or try a version in fused glass...but will post a photo of the final earrings in a future post.merrikin designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01369362440861447101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2523498025017193956.post-32516298670639826022013-02-23T14:48:00.001-08:002013-02-23T14:48:56.478-08:00Artist Takahiro Iwasaki: Art from Ordinary Objects - You'll Never Look at Duct Tape the Same Way Again<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vZ3TOSfVK6E/USlCi0DP6aI/AAAAAAAAAJk/VCN9tlpGN80/s1600/iwasaki-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vZ3TOSfVK6E/USlCi0DP6aI/AAAAAAAAAJk/VCN9tlpGN80/s200/iwasaki-2.jpg" width="174" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Iwasaki.www.thisiscolossal.com</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Py7MnlbAdow/USlBRd528wI/AAAAAAAAAJQ/Tb_WYPvlzpI/s1600/Takahiro-Iwasaki.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="204" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Py7MnlbAdow/USlBRd528wI/AAAAAAAAAJQ/Tb_WYPvlzpI/s320/Takahiro-Iwasaki.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Iwasaki.www.thisiscolossal.com</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7bIJXUwBZkc/USlCf-2EixI/AAAAAAAAAJc/I68M_FT8qq4/s1600/iwasaki-14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="133" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7bIJXUwBZkc/USlCf-2EixI/AAAAAAAAAJc/I68M_FT8qq4/s200/iwasaki-14.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Iwasaki. <a href="http://www.thisiscolossal.com/">www.thisiscolossal.com</a></td></tr>
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Or look at thread from a towel and toothbrush bristles in the same manner either for that matter. Amazing what Takahiro Iwasaki can create from everyday objects. I can barely thread a needle without squinting - can't begin to imagine the eye strain involved with constructing a ferris wheel from sewing thread. Never would I look at a roll of electrical tape and think it a worthwhile carving medium yet Iwasaki creates a topographical map from one.<br />
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For more images of work by Iwasaki, see <a href="http://www.thisiscolossal.com/2013/02/takahiro-iwasaki/" target="_blank">Colossal</a>, a blog started/edited by Christopher Jobson (Chicago, IL) that focuses on non digital art (in many forms) with roughly 20-25 artists featured each week. A worthwhile read.<br />
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<img height="96" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vZ3TOSfVK6E/USlCi0DP6aI/AAAAAAAAAJk/VCN9tlpGN80/s200/iwasaki-2.jpg" style="filter: alpha(opacity=30); left: 156px; opacity: 0.3; position: absolute; top: 32px;" width="83" />merrikin designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01369362440861447101noreply@blogger.com0