Origins Evaluation

The two textile areas I did in origins where print and Mixed Media. I started off in print, where from the very start, drawing was heavily encouraged. At first I’d say I was hesitant towards drawing, but from the repetition and openness of it, I became more and more comfortable. Both of the rotations sprouted from the 10 objects I collected over the summer. I wish I’d put more thought into my actual objects as some of them were very simple and quickly became mundane to draw.

Print is where I’d say I learnt the most, gaining skills in Photoshop and illustrator and trying different processes in the print room. I’d say a lot of my work was finding out what was and wasn't  successful and actually learning the processes, rather than making it look ‘finished’. Quite a few of my screen prints did not turn out how I anticipated, such as the samples with blue reactive dye. The colour was too intense and did not transition the mood of my colour palette.

 

Digital Print

  I found it challenging to use the digital programmes, especially photoshop to create my digital print.   The result looked rushed and could easily be achieved in the print room. Had I’d thought more about the overall composition and design, it would differentiate more from my screen print samples. There is a definite lack of digital prints and so if I had extra time, I would create more. 

Abstract drawings of paper sculptures

The second rotation was mixed media, which I definitely enjoyed more. As I was comfortable in drawing, I felt more free and open to experimentation. I moved away from the literal objects, and just took sections of them to create abstract drawings. These are my favourite and created the initial catalyst for my project. I really enjoyed doing the laser cut work. As I had already gained skills through illustrator in print, it was easier and quicker to create designs. Although i had problems with overlapping on the wooden pieces in my first session, it was a good learning experience and I knew how to solve any problems before my next session.
 

Laser cork piece

In mixed media I have explored new materials that I’ve previously not worked with including cork and felt. I really like the interesting qualities of cork and the organic nature. The outcomes of the laser pieces are very successful and  transform well from 2D to 3D. I wish that I’d exploited more with scale and made the pieces even bigger, but with little time in the laser room, it was difficult.

Friday drawing days where were I wish I put more effort in. I over thought some of the set tasks, which created a physical and mental block for myself, resulting in a lack of quality within my work. In the future I know I need to relax and just experiment with my materials, which will help create a fuller body of work. I’d say that I have mostly enjoyed the Origins unit, although it has been intense at times, I’ve found that keeping an open mind and not putting too much pressure on my self has created the more successful outcomes. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learnt is to push and take advantage of every skill, process and medium to differentiate and get the best outcome.