Artgrain Studio crafts several special projects throughout the year for our students to experience a new theme together, taking a break from their regular syllabus to spice up their art journey.
This July special project is a modern abstract sculpture project inspired by the American abstract expressionist artist Frank Stella (1936-). He is known for using colourful lines and patterns to create both painting and sculptural works that inspires awe and spurs the viewer’s imagination. Abstract Expressionism, in short, is a post-World War II art movement that emphasises on spontaneous, automatic, or subconscious creation. As its name suggests, works in this style are not meant to depict subjects realistically.
Through this project, we want our young ones to know that painting or drawing realistically isn’t always a must, and is in fact one style amongst many – the Art world is their oyster!
- Frank Stella, Gobba, zoppa e collotorto, 1985, oil, urethane enamel, fluorescent alkyd, acrylic, and printing ink on etched magnesium and aluminium. ©2015 FRANK STELLA/ARTISTS RIGHTS SOCIETY (ARS), NEW YORK
Students from all programs get to experience first-hand designing their very own abstract sculpture from scratch, all while learning a significant chapter in Modern Art History. They take familiar objects, animals and even shapes, mix and twist them – and voila! Their very own abstract sculpture!
Building a sculpture from a simple material – cardboard pieces is no simple feat. From sketching to construction to painting, students are challenged as they solve problems along the way to bring their ideas into being. Each step requires conscious effort and consideration – how to connect the pieces, what shape each piece takes etc. Teachers guide students along the way – giving them constructive ideas and suggestions.
Design elements like colour schemes, patterns, placement were also taught to really translate students’ imagination. A wide variety of painting and mark-making techniques were also taught. For instance, colourful dots can be achieved by dabbing with paintbrush, drawing with markers or splattering with paint. They are encouraged to use a combination of tools to create truly vivid and imaginative works.
Some students are completely new to 3D works while others are more experienced. Nonetheless, all gleaned with excitement when told they could create whatever they want, especially their favourite animal or character. Their individual sense of aesthetic shone through with their choice of colour, patterns and form of the sculpture. Zarrar is a brilliant example – light blue and yellow lines atop navy blues- a very stylish T-rex indeed!
Lastly, what makes their work shine and truly their own is their unique sense of humour! We hope our students enjoyed this special project and found it memorable as much as we did.
Stay tuned for more!
The Artistic Journey 