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The Expressiveness of Porcelain and its Plasticity in Wheel Thrown Forms
This creative problem project aimed to develop a series of vase forms expressive of clay and its plasticity as developed through the throwing process.
Connections
In my problem-in-lieu-of-thesis, I investigated the connections formed between images which refer to disorder and those which connote imposed order; therefore, I pursued the following questions: 1. What connotations did each of the images have for me? 2. How was each image affected by taking it out of one context and placing it in a new one? 3. What relationships formed between images thus juxtaposed?
The Search for Meaning Through the Visually Analogous
In my Problem in Lieu of Thesis I explored the use of analogy in my work. I searched for ways to heighten the difference or distance between the imagery within an analogous relationship and yet maintain meaningful similarities or relationships. An analogy, for the purpose of this paper is defined as the following: "a similarity or likeness between things in some circumstances or effects, when the things are otherwise entirely different."
The Incorporation of Silkscreen Techniques in the Decoration of Raku-Fired Ceramics
The questions answered by this investigation are as follows: 1. Which silkscreens and stencils will work in screening flat and three-dimensional objects? 2. Which mediums and coloring agents will survive a glaze firing to produce an acceptable image? 3. How can the image be modified by screening during the different stages of a ceramic piece (wet, green, bisque, glazed)? 4. What glazes and glaze applications will be compatible? 5. Generally, what is the relationship between the image and the object?
An Analysis of Retained Two Dimensional Elements in a Three Dimensional Sculptural Format
The object of this problem in lieu of thesis has been the exploration and identification of the retained two dimensional design idiom in the sculptural format of my work. (By this, I am referring to the lateral, planar quality which often continues as part of my designs.)
Translation of Personal Perceptions into Physical Space and Abstract Form
In this investigation I use the term perception as Arthur Comb and Donald Snygg do when they state that perception is any differentiation the individual is capable of making in his personal field. Perception has to do with the organization one gives to his world. Behavior and learning are products of perceiving. Immanuel Kant said: "We see things not as they are but as we are." During this effort to organize my world I realized that I was concerned with myself as an experiencing individual. I felt that one is built out of his experiences and that the best vantage point for understanding behavior is from the internal frame of reference of the individual himself. I was taking a somewhat phenomenological approach to my problem.
The Use of Symbolic Imagery Through the Decorative Qualities of Majolica
For the purpose of this study I intended to use Majolica to allow me both more flexibility in the physical act of decorating my ceramic work, as well as the opportunity for the expansion of my selection of symbols. During this investigation the following questions were addressed: 1. Was the color range attainable with Majolica relevant to my work? 2. Was my chosen imagery complemented by the special properties of Majolica. 3. Did the textural possibilities of Majolica benefit my work?
An Investigation of the Use of a Torch with Ceramic Materials
This report documents the changes in my work as a ceramic artist over a two-year period, imposed upon, and inspired by, the use of a propane torch on the surface of the clay vessel. The purpose of this study is two-fold: (1) to provide information about this particular tool for methods of survace decoration; (2) to provide information about a subjective thought process directed by properties in this particular tool.
Repeated Elements: Formal Possibilities for Abstract Expression of Rhythmic Life Patterns
As my creative project, I decided to explore the possibilities for expression of rhythmic life-growth patterns in a variety of abstracted multiple forms. The work was planned to investigate the following questions: 1. What forms can be used to communicate the idea of repetitive, rhythmic or seasonal life or growth patterns? 2. What size/scale is effective in communicating the universal, infinite character of these patterns? 3. What formats or types of presentation are the most effective? 4. How is the overall impact of the work affected by changes in size and form? 5. How do changes in the work affect my responses to it, and what subsequent directions result in the work?
An Investigation of the Halo Effect Achieved Through Alterations of Standard Raku Formula and Procedures
My research explored the possibilities of achieving the raku halo through variations of the standard engobe (pronounced on-gobe) and oxide formulas, using ceramic vessels as media. This included alterations of the ingredients, consistencies, and methods of application. Throughout the research, a journal was kept including individual information about research pieces, a statement of results, and my reaction to those effects. From this information, an analysis of the completed vessels was compiled.
Investigation of Zinc, Magnesium, and Aluminum as Etching Surfaces
The introduction to printmaking in most universities and college directs students to learn the basic techniques of intaglio using zinc. This continues throughout one's academic career, with little emphasis placed on experimentation with other metals. During my undergraduate and graduate studies I etched with zinc. I had wanted to use aluminium and magnesium in order to explore the similar and dissimilar qualities of the three.
Established Fabric Techniques Used to Create Motorized Forms
The ancient artist's influences can still be felt in today's craftsmen. For example, the contemporary weaver Sheila Hick's prayer rugs are an assimulation of the textile techniques of ancient Peru, Persia, and India, and the macramed forms of the contemporary Spanish artist, Aurelis Munoz, are suggestive of the woven huts of many primitive cultures. Because of this influence upon the current investigation, the evolvement of weaving and its techniques, as well as the three-dimensional techniques of basketry, in different parts of the world and in different historical periods are reviewed briefly.
Art by the Yard: Exploring Narrative Drawings
I am interested, both from a personal standpoint and from a cultural perspective, in pursuing the meaning of thes eimages singly and as they combine with others. In turn, the results, I hope, will lead to the discovery of more images for my image encyclopedia. After this introduction subsequent chapters will explore my reasons for the combinations of images I choose and will place the finished drawings in their contemporary art context. My goal will be to note the changing meanings of the objects as they interact serially.
An Investigation of Some Intaglio Processes Through Bookmaking
In pursuit of the project, I sought to address the following concerns: 1. Which intaglio processes, or their combination, proved to be the most useful in production of the book? 2. In establishing a concept for the book, what problems were encountered? 3. What is the visual relationship between the printed images, the book, and its container?
Concept Vs. Intuition: A Study Into the Personal Understanding of Images
I was curious as to what my work was about and what images were important to me. There had to be a reason why I was driven to do what I did, whether it was a conscious, conceptual purpose or a subconscious, intuitive reason. The problem of this investigation was to discover which of these I used in the creation of my images or whether I used both.
Contemplation Series
My work dealt with the life within inanimate objects and what occurred when one placed apparently unrelated objects together in an arrangement. The arrangements had three interrelated elements: the objects, spacial relationships, and materials.
The Investigation of the Symbolism of the Feline Image in my Work
Feline images have been an element in much of my work since 1981. These cat images were usually included in self-portraits. As my work progressed, the feline images increased in importance until 1985, when I abandoned the self-portraits almost entirely and began working predominantly with the cats. Although the feline image has been an important aspect of my work for several years, I never attempted to discover what these images symbolized or meant. I rarely thought consciously about the content of my work, as i arrived at my images primarily in an intuitive manner.
An Experimental Investigation Into the Predictability and Controllability of Shrinkage in Polymer-Acrylic Emulsion Artists' Paints
The problem of this investigation is to determine if the shrinkage resulting from water loss, which causes cracking in polymer-acrylic emulsion artists' paints, can be controlled to produce a predictable variety of surface textures useful in painting. Preliminary information on the behavior of polymer-emulsion paints was taken from published material such as Mayer's Artist's Handbook of Materials and Techniques, Woody's Polymer Painting, and various manufacturers' technical publications. Experimental investigations were conducted to observe the media under varied methods of application and conditions of drying. The information gathered in the experiments was used to develop techniques producing a variety of predictable textural alterations, which were used in a series of experimental paintings.
Transcendence and Paradox: A Question of Female and Male
For the problem in lieu of thesis, a series of ten works were created in which a male image replaced the female image; I continued to utilize the same materials, format, and centralized frontal figure. A record of the work was accomplished by maintaining a written and visual journal on progress and outcome. Some research was made into topics related to the work, and the findings from the literature comprise chapter two of the paper. In executing this body of work and researching related topics, I hoped to better understand my conscious and unconscious processes and motivations in creating both the self-portrait series and the new series.
Printmaking and Painting in Combination with Other Media
The purpose of this study was to give information on watercolor painting in combination with printmaking and secondary media. The objectives of the creative problem were stated in two parts. The first dealt with the exploration into kinds of secondary media which affect the printed surfaces and the watercolors, and the second dealt with the investigation into the kinds of secondary media that can be effectively integrated with the collograph and the monoprint.
The Artist's Book as an Alternative to the Gallery Installation
I examined and evaluated three sets of gallery installations and related handmade books. The following questions were considered foremost: 1) Visually, how different from and how similar to the gallery installations are the books? 2) What verbal elements are adapted from the installations to the books? 3) How does the difference in format (that is, the books) alter or affect the content and meaning of the installations?
Interpretive Drawing: Self-Portraits
The objectives of the creative problem may be stated in two parts. First, the utilization of the self-portrait theme in order to explore a variety of drawing techniques, media combinations, and surface manipulations; and second, the maintenance of a sketchbook-diary which accompanies the study as supportive data. The sketchbook entries include not only pertinent visual material but also verbal commentary. The sketchbook-diary is sequential and denotes the various stages of development as well as the progression of the study.
Non-Traditional Painting Techniques: The Effect of Their Use on the Imagery of My Work
The purpose of this project was to investigate the use of non-traditional painting techniques on the images of my work. The following questions were specifically considered. 1. When and why in the process do decisions occur concerning the following: A. Subject or idea or motivation? B. Materials? C. Shaping? D. Color? E. Texture or embellishment? 2. Does the motivation change at any point in the process? 3. With the emergence of the final form is there an awareness of content (or intrinsic meaning) which was absent or completely nebulous at the inception?
The Investigation of Molded Units for Assembled Sculptures
The problem being dealt with concerns the investigation of the conceptual and expressive potential of mold-formed units in combination with other media and processes. The questions under consideration are as follows: 1. Do the concepts of pieces vary with the materials and process being used? How? 2. What alterations occur in the visual image as a result of the change in media and processes? 3. What mechanical and technical problems are involved in the mold-formed process?
Low-Temperature Sodium Vapor Firing: A Study of Alternative Sources for Sodium
As much as I like the effects of low-fire salting, I hesitate to use salt. The hydrochloric acid released into the environment during the salting process creates a dense fog that is not only toxic, but visually offensive as well. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to find a source of sodium that would achieve aesthetic results as equally exciting as the effects of salt.
Factors Which Motivated Me to Produce as a Working Sculptor
The purpose of this project is to provide a record, much like the ones left to us by Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci, of the personal influences which motivated the present artist to function productively as a sculptor for a period of one semester: from September 1, 1975 through December 12, 1975. The methods involved in charting such artistic transpirations consisted of two types: a written diary, daily recorded, which indicated the progress, regression, frustration, inspiration, and perceptions which were experienced by the artist during the three-month period; and a series of personal, emotional self-enquiries.
An Investigation of the Sculptural Possibilities of Warp Distortion and Manipulation Through Warp Weighting
The purpose of this project is to investigate the sculptural possibilities of warp distortion and manipulation through the utilization of the weighted-warp process. A secondary purpose is to explore the technique of warp weighting beyond a single fabric layer. It is projected that a weighted layer can be combined with one which is tensioned evenly and tied onto the floor loom (loom tensioned). In this manner, the loom-tensioned layer remains stable. The weighted layer is free to move through the heddles while maintaining tension on the warps.
Analysis of Imagery Concerning Body and Landscape
The primary purpose of this study was to investigate how imagery evolved in my work, in dealing with the relationship between body and landscape and the relationship between image and abstraction. Five paintings were created for the investigation of the evolution in my imagery. A journal of notes was kept concerning each piece while in progress and immediately following its completion. The analyzing method was a visual analysis of the structure and content, as well as the process through which the imagery evolved.
The Combination of Sewing Techniques, Manufactured Fabric, Paper, Paint, as a Creative Process
My problem was to investigate some of the possibilities which have arisen through my previous work by producing twelve fabric pieces and eight paper pieces. Specifically, the following questions were to be examined: 1. Are there traditional designs or techniques in quilts of the past that can be utilized in my own work? 2. Are the primary colors (red, yellow, blue) in manufactured unaltered fabric more effective than painted or altered fabric? 3. Is there a correlation between the color and imagery in the paper pieces and those of the fabric pieces? 4. Of the project pieces, is there a size that generally appears to be more successful than others?
Exploring Visual Metaphors for Loss
My concerns relate to the process of imagery development and the process of utilizing suitable materials to execute my work. These concerns are dictated by the themes in a particular piece and revolve around an acute sense of loss. These themes are frequently presented with humor.
Presentation Options for Sculpture
The act of putting anything on a base isolates it and makes it seem more precious. The base separates the viewer from the sculpture and affects the relationship between the sculpture and viewer. The problem for me was to remove the base and experiment with the possibilities now opened to my work. The purpose of this study was to explore the presentation potentials of sculpture freed from the constraints of the plinth.
The Dynamics of Structure and Discord in the Beautiful
The objective of my problem in lieu of thesis was to produce twenty hand-built porcelain objects which reflected this conception of beauty. To review the success of my project, I asked three questions to evaluate my work. 1. Was there significant structure to my works? 2. Was there significant discord within these structures? 3. Did the tension created through the interaction of these two elements of my work create beauty?
An Investigation of Group and One-Person Exhibitions
The primary purpose of this investigation was to acquire information about the fundamentals of participating in group and one-person shows. The assumption was made that upon acquiring this basic information an understanding of the intricacies of the larger exhibition procedure could be attained. I proposed to investigate aspects important to the production, selection, and installation of my work in a formal gallery setting.
Examination of Personal Aesthetics as Reflected in My Work
In order to arrive at a more consistent and clear personal understanding of the nature of art, I examined the ideas about art and aesthetics which were reflected in my works of the past several months. Some of the specific questions i asked in my investigation of the works were: 1. What are my thoughts on the role of content and form in my visual art? 2. What are my thoughts on the role of the viewer in visual art? 3. What are my thoughts on the role of permanence in visual art? 4. What are my thoughts on the role of appropriated imagery in visual art? 5. What are my thoughts on the role of expression in visual art?
My Lazy Mind Needs a Dumb Structure to Lean On
The purpose of this study was to examine the difference between language and the use of visual imagery to represent experiences and ideas. It focused on the following questions: 1. Can the meaning of a painting be ascertained by analyzing the referents of the images and their relationships to one another? 2. How does the purely formal part of the painting function in the creation of meaning? 3. What is the difference in the meaning created by language and visual imagery when they were used to represent the same idea or experience? 4. Where do my ideas come from?
Nylon Monofilament Weaving: It Won't Hold Water
The goal of this problem was to incorporate clear nylon monofilamnet in a series of weaves traditionally chosen for their absorbent virtues that in these cases would achieve interesting textural effects and light-reflective qualities in addition to varying degrees of transparency.
Exploring the Distinction Between a Two-Dimensional and a Three-Dimensional Reality
Two ways of apprehending reality were intimated; reality as a function of purely visual stimuli and reality as a substantial object. The problem was, therefore, an exploration of reality as a purely visual sense and reality as concrete form. In pursuing the project, I explored how each reality distinguished itself by separating each in the prior conception of the work and in the subsequent discussion.
An Investigation of Large Scale in Painting
As a painter, I have been working the past few years to develop a mature pictoral image and the concepts of space that were flexible enough for me to produce what I believed was a valid art statement. I have investigated several avenues for improving my work, i.e., acquiring certain technical painting skills, reading more to broaden my concepts and imagination, and visiting various art galleries and museums. During an earlier critique it was realized that the majority of my paintings were all very similar in scale. I decided to approach my work on a much larger scale than previously attempted in the hopes of discovering a better, or at least different painting concept.
The Use of Blacksmithing Techniques in the Construction of Outdoor Sculpture
The purpose of this problem was to investigate the advantages and limitations in the use of blacksmithing techniques combined with the construction techniques of arc welding and the use of power tools to construct large outdoor sculpture. Specific questions will be asked to determine the suitability of this method of working. The questions are: 1. Can blacksmithing techniques be used in the construction of large outdoor sculpture? a. what specific techniques are appropriate? b. Will some techniques be used more than others? 2. Will these techniques be used more than others? 2. Will these techniques take an inordinate amount of time and make them impractical for the artist to use?
A Personal Aesthetic Evolved From Nineteenth Century American Pottery
In the history of ceramics my interest centers around times in particular cultures when ceramic containers were an essential part of life. I am most interested in functional pottery produced in nineteenth century North America between the years 1800-1870. This was a period in which some of the finest pots used for containing things were produced.
Preconception: Bringing the Concept to Fruition
The purpose of this project was to manipulate imagery present within the Tarot in a symbolic and visual space working through my own process of preconception. Each of the finished pieces was to be derived through an initial traditional process and then altered by use of monoprint methods and the incorporation of found object directly upon the print surface to give the illusion of a three-dimensional character, or actually contain the print in a three-dimensional format.
An Investigation of Visual Oppositions in Drawing and Printmaking
I resolved to consciously examine the role of precise and spontaneous aspects of my drawings as my creative project. I felt that an investigation into the use of precise and spontaneous elements and their relationship to each other would strengthen my understanding of my own work.
Exploring the Feminine Through Archetypal Symbols
The purpose of this project was to create and present groups of stelae which contain personal imagery derived from archetypal feminine symbols used as hieroglyphs. The groupings of the stelae, by nature of the problem, took on a ritual appearance. Two groups of twelve stelae each were constructed with materials and techniques used in a fiber tradition. Each individual stele was designed to function alone as well as in a group.
Altering the Muzak Situation
The project involved producing a group (16) of audio-visual installations that successfully displayed and exposed various Muzak situations. The following questions, relating to individual pieces, were of concern: 1. What is the basic intent of each installation or piece? 2. Does the piece communicate the intent of the artist? 3. Which installations or pieces will adapt to any space? 4. What visual documentation is necessary to preserve the idea?
A One-Person Exhibition: An Investigation of Problems in the Production, Selection, Presentation, and Installation
In this creative project, I investigated the problems of producing, selecting, presenting, and installing a one-person exhibition. I executed a series of 31 drawings, paintings and prints from which 21 pieces for the exhibit were selected. From the body of work executed prior to and during my graduate study, 21 pieces were included based upon the relative quality of the imagery. There were no restrictions with regard to media or size. My goal in this project was to assemble and present a coherent and harmonious exhibit in the North Texas State University art gallery.
Representationalism in Woven Tapestry Technique
My interest in pictorial representationalism began when I started painting and drawing as a child, and my concern for working realistically continued and developed through my undergraduate years in college. In this investigation i explored the working processes used in a representational approach to contemporary woven tapestries. A brief discussion of the origins of representational woven tapestries with concentration upon Twentieth Century textiles was followed by an analysis of the influences upon my work by artists and stylistic trends.
Collaborative Art
Our problem was to produce art in a collaborative manner. Due to the nature of our problem, we proposed to explore specific aspects of collaborative art and answer these questions: 1. in what ways is the co-artist's input beneficial? 2. How are the artist's skills broadened by working with a fellow artist? 3. What is involved in developing a professional working relationship between male and female artist? 4. What understanding of differences in working styles is acquired? 5. What are the differences reflected in each artist's earlier works as compared to the collaborative pieces?
Exploring the Possibilities of Combining Hand Fabricated and Mold Formed Ceramic Processes
The abstract expressionist movement aided in the development of this new personality for the clay world. An entire new dimension was added with extreme manipulation of ceramic pieces. My work reflects feelings and ideas concerning today's society and the status-quo. Common, everyday images recur in my art objects, with a major interest in cars, food, slogans, and puns. These are all a part of the hysteria of the American scene today.
The Effects of Layered Materials on a Structural Grid System Where the Process Determines the Surface Quality
The investigation concerned itself with the following questions: 1. What was the relationship of the structural grid system to the layered materials? 2. How much of the final results of the works were dependent on the process of constructing the pieces? 3. What processes were used to change surface quality? 4. What were the various methods of installation in a gallery?
The Effect of Paper Supports as Aesthetic Choices Made in the Oil Painting Process
I believe that an artist needs a mechanism(s) built into his or her working method out of which the greatest number of options may arise. I suggested that, for me, painting on paper could be one such mechanism. I wanted to pursue paper as a viable surface on which to paint and discover to what extent it would influence my choices in the working process.
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