Project Log Template

Learning to See: Creating a Still Life Composition

Materials: 3-5 random objects… Clay (provided)

Clay Modeling Tools Plastic Water Container Plastic Bag to cover your work

Vocabulary: Still life Composition Full Round Clay Scale & Proportion Modeling Plinth, Pedestal & Base

Process:

1. Gather 3-5 random objects and place them in front of you. Using at least three of those objects, create a composition that makes the grouping of these objects interesting from all sides. Glue or assemble the objects in such a way that it will be intact for each day you work on this. a. You may use paper or cloth and blocks of wood or

other objects to elevate and arrange your objects.

2. Using clay, begin to sculpt your still life. LOOK at the objects you are sculpting. Do not rely on your memory of the object. You may find it easiest to sculpt each object individually and then join them together or you can carve the objects out of a solid block. Play with one or more objects to turn them into an animal, insect or other fantasy creature. a. Change the scale or proportions of your objects at

least 50%. Your composition may be strictly representational or it may be more abstract.

b. If your clay object(s) are thicker than ½”, you will need to hollow it out. Make sure to leave a small hole for air to escape.

c. When joining two pieces of clay together, use the “score & slip” method.

d. DO NOT MAKE YOUR COMPOSITION LARGER THAN 8” IN ANY DIRECTION.

3. When you have completed your composition, set it on the shelves to dry. Cover lightly with a plastic bag for a couple days, then removed the bag so it can dry completely.

4. Once dry, your still life will be fired and returned to you for paint, patina or other finish work. You may incorporate non- clay elements at this time

Timeline:

Tues 10/18 Clay and composition demo. Begin composition arrangement with objects. Start clay work.

Thurs 10/20 Work on modeling still life

Tues 10/25 Work on modeling still life

Thurs 10/27 Begin finishing details

Tues 11/1 Clay finished, set aside to dry. Wood project will be presented on this day.

Once the clay is dry I will fire it and then return them to you.

The final due date will be set later.

QUESTIONS:

1. What is the definition of a still life? 2. Define full round sculpture. 3. Title your still life. 4. What is one of the most important things to do when

sculpting an object from life? 5. Is your sculpture abstract or representational?