Tekton 21st Century Practice and Pedagogy
Transcription
Tekton 21st Century Practice and Pedagogy
Tekton 21 Century st Practice and Pedagogy Gregor Roth 1 Gregor Roth www.gregorroth.com 260 602 7757 [email protected] All content is the creative and intellectual property of Gregor Roth and may not be used without a written request and granted permission. 2014 Table of contents Tekton, the Poetic, Art - Architect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pg. 01 Adjective / Verb List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pg. 03 The Location of Art . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pg. 05 Art-Architect: Studio Practice / Methodology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pg. 07 Pedagogical Methodology: Sketch - Research . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pg. 15 Studio Practice | Methodology: Acquiring Place in Space - Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pg. 19 Pedagogical Methodology: Syllabi Samples and Student work . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pg. 25 Placing Myself in an Art / Historical Context . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pg. 33 Synergistic Thinking: Logical Thinking and Input Sensitivity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pg. 37 Practice and Pedagogy: A Four Step Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pg. 41 Conclusion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pg. 45 *Why some pages have QR Codes. Simply use your smart phone, scan the code and it will take you to specific pages in my web site, www.gregorroth.com, that further illustrate and support text contained on that page. Tekton, the Poetic Art - Architect This collection examines the interface of a generative practice that is composed of theory, making and teaching. Highlighting the interactive relationship between these components, I have developed a body of work focused upon a contemporary practice which is driven by the theoretical concerns of culture, relationship, immersion, viewer interaction, transformation and education. We know the perception and interpretation of vision offers us the widest array of simultaneous spatial distinctions. However, tactile sensations require more time to comprehend, and it is in this way we locate ourselves as objects in a field of other objects. In this context, I redefine Tekton to mean Art – Architect (that is, theorist and maker) a position that allows me to practice from two vantage points. In the original Greek, Tekton means builder, and then was used by Homer to allude to construction in general. Later, its meaning became broader still to describe a more generic notion of making in a poetic sense—the relationship between material and structure—the artistically constructed form through the act of revealing. With this later definition in mind, my practice begins by constructing two-dimensional and three-dimensional situations through conceptual and theoretical research. Using a sketchbook approach that I call Sketch Research, (see p. 16, Observational Drawing) itself a generative process, and via writing and illustrating, I design work that conveys my vision two-dimensionally. These notions either remain two dimensional or go on to be built into an installation. All results exist in our space and time, whether illustrative or graphic design or as Installations, which re-articulate space. As Tekton, the Art - Architect, my work is designed through theory and built for experience. QR link; gregorroth.com home page describing core methodology. 01 Adjective / Verb List Drawing, the means of visual articulation is essential-the beginning to poetic making-and, understanding my unique visual language I am able to communicate effectively. This is the process of sketch-research I use in the studio and the classroom. Theorize . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . to theorize Investigator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . to investigate Conceptualist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . to conceptualize Thinker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . to think Planner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . to plan Culturalist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . to culturize Traveler . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . to travel Experientialist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . to experience Interactivist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . to interact Challenger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . to challenge Antagonist. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . to antagonize Experimenter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . to experiment Fearless. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . to be fearless Adventurer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . to be an adventurer Builder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . to build Constructor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . to construct Passionate. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . to be passionate 03 The Location of Art Existing around us are disparate artifacts, ideas, notions, even absolutes, seemingly unconnected and unrelated. And yet in everything are levels of interconnectivity. Visual Communications and Design and Fine Art are symbiotic; the two-dimensional and the three-dimensional are experiential and interactive and so become social connection points. Through research, conceptual thought, sketching, writing as well as self-evaluation, the act of Sketch - Research, come the components for rich, unique and innovative work. Sensual, they are alive with possibility and vitality. Composed of line, shape, depth, color and scale they involve our sensations, becoming a bright aurora in the mind and a companion to the body. Capable of integrating the specific, the segmented, the fragmented parts of self and society, art then, must be, visceral, vast, and communicative. Art in the end is both timeless and timely. QR link; Generic Form: Rearticulating Space description page. 05 Art - Architect: Studio Practice / Methodology The Simultaneous Experience of the Two Dimensional and the Three Dimensional 07 07 Generic Form: Rearticulating Space ‘Introduction’ I create three-dimensional possibilities out of two-dimensional arrangements: I view Twentieth Century Modernists abstracted paintings as being potentially and conceptually flattened threedimensional situations. This act is the Tektonic process of spatial re-articulation, proving how each form compliments the other and the reification of the importance of two-dimensional work. (This process is shown between figures A and B.) Our cognitive abilities of sight and perception allow us to move back and forth between these two- and three-dimensional possibilities, essentially deconstructing and reifying the images. (The process takes the Art–Architect back to two-dimensions from figures B to C.) In any state, the works are each possibilities for representation of the cube’s generic form—newly designed aesthetics as well as the final specific form. This very act of sight, perception, and interpretation is itself an art situation. Figure: B Shadow form the Guggenheim, Detail. QR link; Page 08, site link describing Figures A, B, C. Figure: A Abstract painting; Martini Waterfall Figure: C Mono print, Untitled study These sketches correspond with the AZOM chart, (p. 21), figure O, by indicating the zones we operate while inside the space of the installation. Zone #2 (AZOM chart, Blue) Zone #3 (AZOM chart, Green) Zone #4 (AZOM chart, Yellow Green) Zone #5 (AZOM chart, Orange) Figure: D Studies of Generic Form: Rearticulating Space Generic Form is Rearticulating Space. It explores the generic form of the cube by its freedom, giving opportunities to design an installation where the work re-defines existing space through a highly structural approach. 09 Generic Form: Rearticulating Space ‘Intent’ ‘Function’ Organizational intention re-defines space through a highly re-structured appearance. The process of newly revising space is architectural, structural and sculptural. In essence, it renders viewer into participant, thereby re-defining the traditional notion of art viewership— re-assessing the relational existence between art and space, viewer and art, sculpture and structure, architecture and structure. Furthermore, when the participant investigates the installation, the work opens into an exploration of function, as occurs within a dwelling, facilitating an interactive environment. Increasing the functionality of the scene even more, another artist’s work might be set upon the walls of each cube and showcase as an intentional gallery venue: essentially, art installed within an art installation. In this specific form, intention and function abide. As a sculpture, the cube becomes a specific form that is temporal, subjective and abstract, which elicits unique participant reactions. In conceptual and visual language, the three-dimensionality of the cube becomes the symbolic manifestation of Platonic form that offers unique and logical multi-formational, art-architectural, art-structural and sculptural possibilities. (see p.11; Figures: E, F, G). QR link; Generic Form: Rearticulating Space detail photo. Sculpture = parts = micro viewing Figure: E Maquette, Generic Form; Rearticulating Space, Detail view. Figure: F Maquette, Generic Form; Rearticulating Space, Detail view. Figure: G Maquette, Generic Form; Rearticulating Space, Detail view. 11 Generic Form: Rearticulating Space ‘Form’ In the form of an installation, rearticulating space takes advantage of the polyhedral properties of the cube when in a solid form, where these formal properties encourage experimentation and investigation (see Figures E, F and G; p. 11). The resultant forms alter the viewers’ normative relationship with art, or architecture. In both cases shifts in space and time occur as interaction within the art installation regardless of its Art or Architectural conditions. When the cube is used in a modular design it creates new potentials of complexity, and in the process accentuates and refines art/viewer relationship. In a macro architectural context, we encounter modules through proprioception. This psychological relation gives a sense of where individuals are in space—that is, a relational situation between our body the larger sense of architectural space. In a micro sculptural context, the viewer is relating via phenomenology, or understanding modules on a smaller and intimate one-to-one scale. At any time, we oscillate between these perceptions (see Figures H, I; p. 13). QR link: Generic Form; Rearticulating Space, Architecture = Gestalt structure = macro viewing. Figure: I Each Cube acts a module on the small and intimate scale, the one-to-one level. Figure: H The micro-sculptural where one relates via phenomenology. 13 13 Pedagogical Methodology: Sketch - Research Line is foundation. It is the first sign, the beginning of thought. It arrives before the spoken word. Line is controlled energy. Line is expression and movement. Line is foundation and finalization and everything in between. 15 Observational Drawing Line can be described as frenzied, lyrical, fluid, smooth. Line can characterize mannerisms of movement. These qualities add complexity, energy, discomfort—a range of emotions that are achieved solely from within the artist as well as from the created mark. Drawing is language. It is a key into the world that mediates reality. Regarding line, Picasso said, only complete control and mastery in drawing would allow the artist to draw instinctively. This idea of drawing as language is emphasized in my foundation drawing classes. Students are given four assignments comprised of seven shapes each. They are required to draw each object one hundred times in order to develop the most critical eye of all: the pencil. The pencil as the most critical eye, occurs when it is used as a tool of expression and description through the mind / hand of an insightful and inquisitive artist. Pencil as a tool making line, value, form give new definition and life to the object under study. Just as in learning spelling or multiplication, so too does drawing in repetition define and expand one’s unique visual language. (see Figures J, K, L, M; p. 17) (See, Pedagogical Methodology, Syllabi Samples and Student Work, wp. 25). The 700’s Drawing seven shapes 100 times strengthens student’s fluidity of line, increases muscle memory and reinforces hand-eye coordination; a process similar to learning the letters of the alphabet. Figure: J Figure: K Figure: L Figure: M 17 Studio Practice | Methodology: Acquiring Place in Space - Time Space is re-articulated by objects. The structural, art-architectural, art-structural and sculptural comprise three interrelated yet independent associations (see p. 21; Figure P). As such they develop fields of relationships within the architectural site, between objects and the participant. The Association of Zones, Objects, and Ma are perceived as spheres for perception, behavior, and interpretation. These associations are necessarily grouped in three distinct columns. 19 19 Association of Zone, Object and Ma The following drawing is an example of the sketch and research process, which I use in my own practice and stress in the classroom. The graphic, (see p. 21; Figure O) is the drawing in its final form. I have used Illustrator to build a clean vector chart. Beginning at section Zone #1-Viewing, Aggregate Propreoception, Site, Ma-Hashi, outer ring, the chart describes how one enters space occupied by an installation and the zones one passes through to acquire a sense of place through space and time. (see Figure N) Figure: N The AZOM chart developed through patron interviews and self analysis. During participation within several different installations ranging over a period of two years as well as simple observation while in public spaces and galleries notes were compiled and the rough chart was developed. Association of Zones, Object and MA (AZOM) Verticle Division #1A Association of Zones, Object and Ma (AZOM). Line Fo rm - Ap pe rtu re Ob Ph jec en tM om ov em en SPI Pen Mo t S tr uc R au tu mf or m ve m en t Su sa bi MA - Objec t-A rt - Perc ep tio n -L on epti rioc rop h lP widt , ua ale , sc xt ase te -b s on Mas C ine n tio - bi Sa C a r din al S ys te Zone #3 V iew ing Line Fo rm m For rm fo - m S i x Pri of nci O ple rg s I a nf lu en ci re uctu Str re ctu te hi c r A A rt ng Ob jec t- ion pt ce r Pe um t tal es -G Ra n tio za ni e ur ct ru M A ra lT rm Em o ed os np Zon e# 2V i ew in g Car din al of O rg P Sy ste m St In f l ue nc in g Ob jec t- Ke rn fo -S uk Six Pr inci ple s MA Line For m #3C n io at iz an MA - Michiyuki Horizontal Division #1A - i win g- M A #3B e, Dwellin nsiv g pa Ex CSO - #3A t- tion cep rio n latio Re g MAsushimi Ut Ke rn e ur ct ru St form nst Ku re -C Sy ste on m Six P of rinc O ipl rg es a In ni #2A flu en ci Ob n je #2B c #1B on ti za ject e Obulptur Sc Zon e# 2V iew Card in ina g l #1B p th ro wid lP le, a c ua ,s e xt as ass eM -b te Lin ntio ep rc Pe Sha Osite CS mpopth, o e -C IP rms, D ive t c P S Fo rspe Pe y og ol #1A n io pt ce er g - nology win Viehenome #5 ne fest P o i Z an M pes rm fo Zone #1 Framework #2A ki Su -V iew ing ,A gg re ga Line F te orm Pr op Zone #4 Vie i ash -H A ,M ite ,S n io pt ce o ri Stereotomic #2A Figure: O See page 09, figure: D for illustrations describing AZOM breakdown. 21 M ed ia Space, Form, and Participation: Acquiring A Sense of Place Zones, column #1, are located on the outermost layer of each major quadrant of the AZOM chart. These areas are comprised of viewing, which involves site design, participation, and occupying and consists of two sub sets of formative observation. First, through the Cardinal System of Ordering (i.e., a collection of views that combine naturally into a general appearance), and secondly, by way of the Six Principles Influencing Perception (i.e., physical characteristics that influence perception by forming the basis of viewer participation.) The over all process includes all the stages ranging from proprioception to phenomenology. (see p. 21, Figure O). Objects, column #2, are aquired by moving inward and are categorized as builder form, consisting of Framework and Stereotomics and Artistic Form broken down into Kernform, Kunstform and Raumform. Ma, column #3, the Japanese concept of Space-Time, describes the culmination of the layered characteristics of being while within the complex of the re-articulated space. Ma is simply described as ‘Space between’, the essence of Ma, as well as the Space directing movement and Space for relationship and existence. #1 - Zones #2 - Objects #3 - MA 1A - Viewing 2A - Builder Form 3A - Space Between 1B - Occupying 2B - Artistic Form 3B - Space Directing Movement Cardinal System of Ordering 3C - Space for Relationship and Existence Six Principles Influencing Perception Figure: P The chart describes groupings that formulate sets of principles and characteristics influencing how we relate to a place through space, form and participation. 23 Pedagogical Methodology: Syllabi Samples and Student Work Drawing is communication and as such a requisite skill in visual art—a core skill in the classroom for each student. Further, the sketchbook functions as site, the place to begin creation and solve problems as a self-contained and portable studio. With this skill they develop their visual language and create new lexicons that enrich their studies and eventually their professional practice. 25 25 Observational Drawing: VCD-P101 Overview Observational Drawing is the process of understanding, interpreting and becoming aware of phenomena—natural and manmade—that comprises the world around you. This introductory class approaches the process of drawing is as much a formal practice as it is a portal into the student’s understanding as an artist. To strengthen his or her ability and enhance understanding, the focus of each class is on sight as it pertains to the understanding of subject/object and its environment. Fundamental to this idea is the concept that students have a Core Personal Visual Language to develop all aspects of their artistic studies and personal practice. This class places at its core the concept of process, rigor, research and discipline as a foundation to a professional practice. Sketch - Research During the semester students are required to have a sketchbook and keep a journal that consists of studies, quick or formal drawings, writing reflecting observations of art, design concepts and / or topics covered in class. Topics might be wide and far ranging and may cover current trends, theory, manners in thinking, artists and other applicable topics. Entries should include detailed, in-depth observations and critical analyses of pertinent topics (in complete sentences), as well as drawings/sketches that visually articulate broad ranges of thought. A great deal of importance is placed on the journal. Its intent is to teach thought, both written and visual as well as discipline and being critically aware. Students are to assume the journal’s use is ongoing and incorporated into various assignments, class discussions and personal development. Readings Rather than a series of specific books and authors being assigned by the instructor, students are told to focus on the list of artists below as a starting point. They are then to select two and research them throughout the semester. As they use their sketchbooks, they also are expected to add inspired drawings and writings that reflect their studies. This methodology is a forum to ask questions, seek answers and draw. The sketchbook becomes an extension of the studio. Artists This is not a comprehensive list but only a starting point. Michelangelo Henri Matisse Pablo Picasso Richard Serra Barnett Newman Leonardo da Vinci Paul Klee Sol Lewitt Roy Lichtenstein Jackson Pollock Tintoretto Wassily Kandinsky Fred Sandback Robert Motherwell Through construction, by way of line and tone, comes an assemblage of complex forms and these impart mass. Student samples. (see Figures Q, R; p. 27) Figure: Q Figure drawing. Figure: R Example of student Sketch-Research self studies. 27 Illustration 1; Dry Media: VCD-P206 Overview Illustration is used to illustrate textbooks, steps of instructions in manuals, the various moods and emotions of characters in a story, visual advertising, certain concepts or themes. Illustration usually supports the main subject or idea necessary in conveying anything from a product to an idea. The Illustration expands meaning to a subject for the audience or the readers to understand the context and situation more clearly. Illustration is found everywhere from fashion, to comic book, to C.D or vinyl disc covers, to the front cover of a book or to a poster. Today illustration is used in a variety of fields. It is considered a very effective medium of communication. Illustration has been in use for centuries all around the world but it developed as a prestigious profession in the past few decades. The computer has expanded the role of ease of creating illustrations, however for this class, unless otherwise stated, you will use the computer for any part of an assignment. Sketch - Research During the semester students are required to have a sketchbook and keep a journal that consists of studies, quick or formal drawings, writing reflecting observations of art, design concepts and / or topics covered in class. Topics might be wide and far ranging and may cover current trends, theory, manners in thinking, artists and other applicable topics. Entries should include detailed, in-depth observations and critical analyses of pertinent topics (in complete sentences), as well as drawings/sketches that visually articulate broad ranges of thought. A great deal of importance is placed on the journal. Its intent is to teach thought, both written and visual as well as discipline and being critically aware. Students are to assume the journal’s use is ongoing and incorporated into various assignments, class discussions and personal development. Readings Rather than a series of specific books and authors being assigned by the instructor, students are told to focus on the list of artists below as a starting point. They are then to select two and research them throughout the semester. As they use their sketchbooks, they also are expected to add inspired drawings and writings that reflect their studies. This methodology is a forum to ask questions, seek answers and draw. The sketchbook becomes an extension of the studio. They should also show specific documentation as evidence of research. Artists This is not a comprehensive list but only a starting point. Victor Ambrus Richard Bassford HiroshegeEgon Sheile Otto EppersWyeth William Hogarth Koji Ishakowa Winslow HomerBoris Vallejo Student sample (see Figure S; p. 29) *Semester assignment breakdown not shown. Label redesign. Metal and Metalic surfaces. Hair, female. Male, pencil illustration. Figures: S. Illustration 1, Dry Media, VCD - P205, student assignments. 29 Graphic Design I: Introduction: VCD-P205 Overview The job of the graphic designer is to develop solutions to communicate specific ideas via highly visual and original schemes. This exchange occurs through client interaction. The graphic designer must not only be talented but also an astute listener. Listening is an exercise and a skill. Understanding the client’s needs and desires only happens through active dialogue and problem solving. Only then does the graphic designer understand the client and can produce an effective product that accurately and innovatively conveys their message. This is an active and engaging process where they design as they listen. Not only will drawing skills but also listening skills will be sharpened. In time, students’ abilities to visually articulate ideas grow and become more effective. Some exercises take place on a peer-to-peer basis. In other assignments, the instructor acts as the client, where instructions are verbally given and the student begins with a series of sketches. After these sketches are complete, the instructor meets with the student to determine the accuracy and steps to follow toward the completion of the assignment. Artists Sketch - Research This is not a comprehensive list but only a starting point. During the semester students are required to have a sketchbook and keep a journal that consists of studies, quick or formal drawings, writing reflecting observations of art, design concepts and / or topics covered in class. Topics might be wide and far ranging and may cover current trends, theory, manners in thinking, artists and other applicable topics. Entries should include detailed, in-depth observations and critical analyses of pertinent topics (in complete sentences), as well as drawings/sketches that visually articulate broad ranges of thought. A great deal of importance is placed on the journal. Its intent is to teach thought, both written and visual as well David Bailey Colin Forbes Tony Wilson Neville Brody David Carson as discipline and being critically aware. Students are to assume the journal’s use is ongoing and incorporated into various assignments, class discussions and personal development. Readings Rather than a series of specific books and authors being assigned by the instructor, students are told to focus on the list of artists below as a starting point. They are then to select two and research them throughout the semester. As they use their sketchbooks, they also are expected to add inspired drawings and writings that reflect their studies. This methodology is a forum to ask questions, seek answers and draw. The sketchbook becomes an extension of the studio. They should also show specific documentation as evidence of research. Michael Bierut Massimo Vignelli Paula Scher Milton Glaser Stefan Sagmeister Student samples. (see Figures T; p.31) *Semester assignment breakdown not shown Figures: T. Indroduction to Graphic Design, VCD - P205. Brochure. Flower shop. Take Away Card. FWoMA. 31 Placing Myself in an Art / Historical Context Minimalism’s influence shows itself in clarity, simplicity and rigor while Formalism Plato’s notion of perception and sense of ‘thing,’. Constructivism echos with hards edges. 33 33 Art / Historical context. My work references several art historical periods, both in its two-dimensionality and three-dimensionality. In regard to illustration, my work reveals a flattened rendition or representation of every day life as a presentation of structure or sculpture that stresses emotion, story or statement. In this way, my aim is to emphasize contemporary and relevant communication across segments of society. In my installation work there follows three associated art/historical periods. Minimalism’s influence shows itself in clarity, simplicity and rigor. In relation to Installation art, a specificity of materials is used to re-articulate space and enhance the act of experiential seeing. This elevates the material beyond the mundane. My conceptual goal is to elicit the perception of the Minimalistic qualities incorporating a systematic approach through precision and measure. The result is achieved via perception and by my use of platonic shape, line and silhouette. Combined with these Minimalistic intentions my work also has echoes of Constructivism in its use of hard edged forms akin to Russian Constructivist Art. Geometric forms of uniform and rational order are freed of ornamentation. Formalism is also present. Manifested through Plato’s notion of perception and sense of ‘thing,’ I strive to make work that reflects a basic yet refined manner. The goal is to develop a dialogue between viewer and object with our dual nature, the ‘I’ and ‘Me’. It is one’s motility, his perspective-altering and spontaneous ability to change position or viewpoint without physically adjusting his location in the work that causes slippage between his ‘I’ and ‘Me’ natures. The always and continuous present ‘I’ and the object-perceiving ‘Me’ slip back and forth as understanding of form, shape and place dynamically fluctuate. The traditional relationship of viewer to image has been redefined through the simple act of immersion in a new environment presenting new opportunities in experiential seeing. QR link; Page 34, personal work describing historical context Artist / Historical Context Richard Serra Sculpture difficult to make, comprehend and display: Serra’s work is concerned with complexity by using simple shapes in complex and demanding designs. I liken my conceptual intent to his. When designed as an installation, it re-defines the viewer’s space and time through the relationship established between the work and the participant. Paula Scher Frank Lloyd Wright Esther Kläs Kläs’s work reveals how the intimate is at once thought of as altogether manmade and of the earth. That is, it evokes solitude without loneliness. Presence and being are to be found in such places, and by re-articulating space I re-order viewership through relationship. Arata Isozaki Isozaki’s architectural work adheres to the Japanese space-time notion known as Ma. His buildings embody the idea that space cannot be understood without time, and time needs space in order to be perceived. My Installations call upon MA’s concepts, transforming viewer into participant through their innate dwelling and explorative approach to the world. Sol LeWitt In reference to his wall drawings, their scale within a room engulfs one’s field of vision while establishing a relational situation for the viewer. I build from LeWitt’s wall drawings with an Installation that uses yarn and string that is, essentially, drawn in space. String and yarn act as line within a three-dimensional canvass. When one flattens perspective and depth, the result becomes two dimensional—rendering a new perspective of the word drawing. Amze Emmons Utilizing drawing, printmaking, architectural illustration and a range of other visual communication disciplines, Emmons brings informational and social clarity to a chaotic world. Sharing an interdisciplinary as well as multidisciplinary tool bag, I strive to convey meaning behind images through my work. Louis I. Kahn Matthew Richie Utagawa (Ando) Hiroshige Paul Klee Robert Morris Milton Glassier Donald Judd QR link; Page 35, personal work describing link to other highlighted artist. Tony Smith 35 Synergistic Thinking: Logical Thinking and Input Sensitivity The pulling from and integrating of Logical and Associative Thinking. 37 37 Synergistic Thinking: Logical Thinking and Input Sensitivity Synergistic Thinking can be defined as understanding and integrating two distinctly opposing, yet necessary, modes of thought. It pulls equally from the process of Logical Thinking and Associative Thinking. Logical Thinking is verbal, sequential and analytic—in short, linear. Associative Thinking combines related ideas or events via imagination or memory, in ways not necessarily logical. This can occur through stray thoughts, nearby events, and sometimes ‘mistakes’ or, the gurgling of the unconscious. Associative Thinking is non-linear. Logical Thinking is imbedded in the conscious mind, while Associative Thinking simmers and ferments in the subconscious mind. Blending these two notions together develops the Synergistic or Creative Thinker. Input Sensitivity Both types of thinking carry intuitional reactions based upon certain preconceived notions regarding thought, ideas, images or situations. These notions resonate within the self as authentic and true. They are made apparent in either emotional reactions or supporting actions and reinforce conviction. Synergistic Thinking requires skillful flexibility, a dance, between Logical and Associative Thinking. Known as Janusian Thinking, it builds upon the combination of using both styles of thinking in a deliberate application of opposites. In the context of design and implementation of a project. Synergistic Thinking is the process of using both simultaneously toward a holistic project. A potential unknown throughout this thinking process is Input Sensitivity. Small subtle variations during the design stage prior to completion—the addition or subtraction of a particular element, for example—can have drastic effects. Of course, these subtle differences can be successful or be disastrous. However, many times the outcome is surprising for designer and client/viewer alike. Through willingness and openness they find new possibilities leading to a successful outcome. Practice and experience develop and enhance Synergistic Thinking. First, it requires the practitioner to be both vigilant and engaged in Logical Thinking as well as Associative Thinking (and to what degrees probably somewhat equal parts), throughout the process. Having the sensitivity and understanding of these within the self will only increase the effectiveness of their Synergistic Thinking. Art professionals who have an awareness of their thinking processes, combined with strong communication and formal/ informal artistic skills, will develop considerable creative depth. 39 Practice and Pedagogy: A Four Step Process A Four-Step Process: Research, Planning, Mockups and Roughs and Evaluations. 41 41 Practice and Pedagogy, a symbiotic relationship Thinking is not only the most important professional quality, but it is also the most exciting. During this stage the artist explores the two-step process of Research and Planning. These stages are explianed further in the following section; A four-Step Process. Though computer software and applications offer obvious advantages to design and construction, virtual reality is devoid of any tactile connection. Therefore, I then practice in a transitional space of design and making that is the third and integral stage: Mockups and Roughs. This is an inquiry period—a deliberate movement between ideas, design and pre-final forms are reassessed. These processes allow for oscillation between the particulars of Research and Planning, Mockups and Roughs and proves that Art is free to explore with no barriers and no constraints. The final stage, Evaluation, reveals thoughtful application of tools and their unique properties. A Four-Step Process for Combining Practice and Pedagogy Research Although integral, in the field of art and design research is often times devalued, glossed over or excluded entirely. In my practice, research is both a source of creative enjoyment and a multidirectional activity. It is not linear, not ordered nor concretely structured. The classroom might be thought of as a controlled environment designed to develop students into artists and this begins at the research phase. For example, assignments are the logical starting point and through the processes of question and answer, roleplay and formal research that confect through their sketch - research exercises. Planning As a cognitive process, Planning emphasizes a course of action that moves toward the smooth completion and final product. It is an attempt to see all possibilities as well as anticipate unforeseen challenges. It considers possible outcomes and, if necessary, adjusts them to the core intentional value. Planning might happen through peer-to-peer, or studio visits as a way to be more effective in the design and finish phase. Mockups and Roughs Focus here is on the practical and material aspects of the product. These include, but are not limited to, size, color, scale, audience, cost and time. These elements reveal, through the phases of Research and Planning, a tangible prototype that can be further used to gauge a myriad of reactions toward the formation of a highly developed final product. Assignments are simply vague beginnings and are as much designed to teach artistic skills as they are needed to develop practical experience. Evaluation At every step the artist should practice some type of self-evaluation. However, this step in particular refers to formal evaluation as being a “devils advocate.” Honest assessment may be done through peerto-peer discussion or through simply being self-critical and objective, with an eye toward appraising the products potential success in relation the core intentional value. This is a learned and necessary skill, in the same way learning software or material handling is. The artist moves through perception to interpretation within the sphere of their own creative mind. The ‘virtual reality’ of design possibilities—moving seamlessly through these different stages— manifest into actuality. Translation of the final form, the act of perception to interpretation, as the degree of success, is found in the final testing phase of the creative hypothesis. This becomes apparent via evaluation in the form of critique. The act of Translation should not concern the deconstruction of idea and final form, but should be understood as a rarefied place where ideas and possibilities flow, then merge, to potentially reshape the final product into a highly articulated expression. This free flow of interpretive information, the cognitive act of translation, is essential to the practitioner as well as the viewer because this informs their work from new directions. Translation then permeates the entire process of the professional artist as maker and as peer. Because one learns along the way that accidents morph into strategy, intuition becomes emergent ideas that bloom into literacy, and this messy and uncomfortable process becomes a manner of transformation and elucidation. 43 Conclusion Culling from a myriad of thinking and making opportunities available to the Twenty-first Century poet, artist, and architect, the methodology incorporated into what I call the Tekton process makes room for broad knowledge and experience while at the same time focusing on the key concepts of unified gestalt understanding and fluid morphing of the two-dimensional and three-dimensional. Thus, the Art – Architect is developed, unrestricted and free to be vigorous, vibrant and boundless—an honest and liberated studio artist, researcher and teacher. In the classroom, this process develops the type of instructor who is focused on developing imaginative and cognitive facilities, in addition to technical skills essential for student growth. This generative process highlights how the synergies of all that was discussed here takes advantage of societal forces, draws upon historical antecedents, and forms innovative concepts that fuel design intended to challenge perceptions and invite participation. This process opens new and innovative ways to think, expand, practice and teach artistic discovery. 45 Gregor Roth www.gregorroth.com 260 602 7757 [email protected] All content is the creative and intellectual property of Gregor Roth and may not be used without a written request and granted permission. 2014