Objectives: 

1. Learn about clay types, processes, and related vocabulary
2. Understand how and when to use each hand building technique: pinch, slab, and coil 
3. Demonstrate proficiency in techniques such as wedging, the score/slip method, and additive/subtractive decorating methods (modeling, incise/excise, impress, appliqué)
4. Create a clay sculpture using a spherical form made with two connected pinch pots as the basis for further construction, using additional pinch, slab, coil, and/or modeled construction methods.
5. Use additive and subtractive decorative methods to create the details needed to give the work and finished look with characteristics of the chosen form (textures, patterns, etc.).
6. Other than that (time restrictions...), the sky is the limit!

​PLEASE NOTE: 

1. The projects illustrated in the slideshow above were based on the Global Studies focus on Latin America - YOUR sculptures will be inspired by your Pop Art painting.
2. The projects illustrated in the slideshow above were made using red clay but YOU will be using white clay. Ways to add color will be discussed but time limits may prevent us from getting that far. If color IS added, it must be SIMPLE (like, spray painting with ONE color).
3. Construction must be hollow and should be sturdy and well balanced and, of course, and the product must make it through the construction, drying, and firing processes!
4. Use the button below to access additional photos of past projects - look at each carefully to better understand the construction methods that you will be utilizing.
   

Objectives:

1. Understand the concept of scientific linear perspective - as it differs from intuitive and atmospheric perspective.
2. Understand that drawing geometric forms is the basis for drawing most every 3D object (including figures) - and that linear perspective can help to draw those geometric forms accurately.
3. Practice drawing with 1-pt. and 2-pt. perspective.
4. Practice value scales with pencil, colored pencil, and paint.
5. Apply highlights, midtones, shadow edges, and cast shadows to linear perspective drawings, according to the light source.
6. Understand how using linear perspective PLUS values (implied lines vs. actual lines) can create the illusion of reality in a drawing or painting.​

PLEASE NOTE: the presentation below will be discussed in class - you can take notes at that time or access the information later; you cannot access this presentation on your phone, however!​​

You CAN draw (you CAN draw better)! Whether you are starting from the beginning or improving upon existing skills, Drawing Bootcamp! will get you into artistic shape. 

Forget what you "think you know" and learn/refine observation techniques that will allow you to truly "perceive" objects vs. "just looking" at them. This type of keen observation, coupled with intense focus and purpose, is the key to drawing and also serves as the foundation for learning other artistic skills and processes.

These "bootcamp" exercises may seem difficult, frustrating, pointless, and even “painful” but there is​ a method to the madness. Stick with it, keep an open mind, and you should be pleased by the outcome.

FIRST: Are you a Right or a Left-brainer? What does that even mean? Does it even matter? What does it have to do with learning to draw? While it may be an outdated and defunct brain theory, it still offers us food for thought re: how we think and learn - and how we LEARN TO DRAW. Find out about the ways of YOUR brain by taking the following quizzes and then documenting and reflecting on the results.

One of the most challenging exercises that you will work through is the blind, continuous line contour drawing. Here's a video that might help:

"Objects are People Too" - photos of faces in ordinary, inanimate objects

Review this presentation for concepts, vocabulary, and related imagery:

Objectives: 

1. Specific inspiration will come from the Anthropomorphic and Zoomorphic pottery of Latin American Pre-Columbian cultures....but your imagination should go wild....
2. Learn about clay types, processes, and related vocabulary
3. Understand how and when to use each hand building techniques of pinch, slab, and coil 
4. Demonstrate proficiency in techniques such as wedging, the score/slip method, and additive/subtractive decorating methods (incise, impress, appliqué)
5. Create a clay sculpture or vessel using a spherical form made with pinch pots as the basis for further construction.
6. Additional pinch, slab, and/or coil construction will complete the form and additive and subtractive decorative methods will create the details
7. Construction must be hollow and should be sturdy and well balanced... and the product must make it through the drying/firing process without breaking, cracking, falling apart or exploding!

CURIOUS?
What is Clay?
Ancient American Art at the VMFA
Costa Rican Pottery