Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term v3 - Senior Secondary 3
Making models for art product
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Making models for art product
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Subject: Visual Art
Class: Senior Secondary 3
Term: 3rd Term
Week: 4
Theme: Applied Design
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This topic, "Making models for art product," introduces students to the crucial role of models in the art and design process. It emphasizes the practical application of design principles and technical skills to translate two-dimensional concepts into three-dimensional prototypes. Understanding model making is vital for Nigerian learners as it underpins various creative and technical professions, including architecture, industrial design, urban planning, film set design, and public art installations, contributing to economic development and innovation within the country. Performance Objectives (Learner-Friendly Language):
pitched roof would involve cutting two trapezoidal and two rectangular pieces and gluing them together.
6. Add Wheels: If desired, glue bottle caps or cardboard circles to the bottom corners of the base.
Finishing and Detailing (Step 5):
1. Refine Edges: Trim any excess material or rough edges.
2. Paint/Color: Paint the kiosk in proposed colours (e.g., brown for wood, red for roof, white for trim) or cover with coloured paper.
3. Signage: Design and print/draw the 'SUYA' sign on white paper and glue it to the front panel above the serving window.
4. Add Details: Attach small fabric pieces for a miniature 'curtain' on the serving window or draw miniature grilled meat on the counter. 2.
1. Definition of a Model in Art: A model, in the context of art and design, is a three-dimensional representation of a concept, design, or object, typically created on a smaller scale than the final product. It serves as a miniature prototype or a physical visualization of an idea before full-scale production or construction. 2.
2. Purpose of Making Models in Art: Model making is an indispensable part of the creative process for several reasons: Visualization: It allows designers and artists to see and interact with their ideas in three dimensions, revealing spatial relationships and aesthetic qualities that might not be apparent from two-dimensional drawings.
Testing and Feasibility: Models help test the structural integrity, functionality, and practicality of a design. Flaws, challenges, or improvements can be identified and addressed early in the design process, saving time and resources.
Communication: Models serve as effective communication tools, enabling artists to present complex ideas clearly to clients, collaborators, or the public. This is particularly useful for proposals for public sculptures, architectural projects, or product designs.
Problem-Solving: The physical act of building a model often reveals unexpected design solutions or challenges, fostering creative problem-solving.
Cost-Saving: Prototyping with inexpensive materials via models is significantly cheaper than constructing a full-scale version directly.
Iterative Design: Models facilitate an iterative design process, allowing for multiple versions and refinements until an optimal solution is achieved. 2.
3. Types of Models: While there are various classifications, the following are most relevant to art products: Scale Models: These are miniature versions of real or proposed objects, accurately proportioned (e.g., a 1:50 model of a building, a 1:10 model of a vehicle). They are essential for architectural, engineering, and product design.
Conceptual Models: These models represent abstract ideas or systems rather than tangible objects. They might simplify complex forms to convey an essence or a specific principle (e.g., an abstract sculpture model representing unity or conflict).
Working Models/Prototypes: These are models designed to demonstrate the functionality or mechanics of a proposed art product. They might have moving parts or interactive elements (e.g., a model of a kinetic sculpture, a prototype for a new piece of furniture).
Maquettes: Specifically used in sculpture, a maquette is a small-scale model of a larger sculpture, created to refine the form and proportion before working on the final, full-sized piece.
Dioramas: Three-dimensional scene models often incorporating figures, landscapes, and architectural elements to depict a specific narrative or environment. 2.
4. Steps in Model Making: The process of making models for art products generally follows these sequential steps:
1. Conceptualization and Ideation: Brainstorming: Generate initial ideas based on the art product's purpose, theme, or function.
Sketching/Thumbnails: Create rough, quick drawings to explore various forms, compositions, and aesthetics. This helps in visualising the concept.
2. Design and Drawing (Technical Design): Detailed Sketches: Develop more refined sketches showing different views (front, side, top, isometric/perspective).
Measurements and Scale: Determine the appropriate scale for the model (e.g., 1:10, 1:20, 1:50). Accurately measure and translate dimensions from the envisioned art product to the model scale.
Orthographic Projections: For complex designs, draw precise orthographic views (plan, elevation, section) to guide construction and ensure accuracy.
3. Material Selection: Choose materials based on the model's purpose, desired appearance, structural requirements, availability, and cost. Consider the textures and properties of the materials.
Common Materials (Nigerian Context): Cardboard (recycled cartons, cereal boxes), paper (old newspapers, magazines), clay (local terracotta), wood (plywood scraps, dowels, matchsticks), plastic (recycled bottles, containers), wires, foam boards, fabric scraps, found objects (bottle caps, plastic sachets, beads).
4. Construction Techniques: Cutting: Use appropriate tools (craft knife, scissors, saw) to cut materials precisely according to the design.
Shaping: Bend, fold, carve, or mold materials to achieve desired forms.
Joining: Assemble components using suitable adhesives (PVA glue, contact adhesive, hot glue), tape, staples, or fasteners. Consider the strength and permanence required.
Assembling: Systematically put together the cut and shaped pieces to form the complete model, following the design drawings.
5. Finishing and Detailing: Refinement: Sanding, smoothing rough edges, filling gaps.
Surface Treatment: Painting, applying textures, varnishing, or adding Cutting: Use appropriate tools (craft knife, scissors, saw) to cut materials precisely according to the design.
Shaping: Bend, fold, carve, or mold materials to achieve desired forms.
Joining: Assemble components using suitable adhesives (PVA glue, contact adhesive, hot glue), tape, staples, or fasteners. Consider the strength and permanence required.
Assembling: Systematically put together the cut and shaped pieces to form the complete model, following the design drawings.
5. Finishing and Detailing: Refinement: Sanding, smoothing rough edges, filling gaps.
Surface Treatment: Painting, applying textures, varnishing, or adding decorative elements to enhance realism or aesthetic appeal.
Details: Adding miniature features, figures, or environmental elements to bring the model to life. 2.
5. Tools for Model Making (Nigerian Classroom Context): Cutting Tools: Craft knife (Stanley knife), scissors, cardboard cutter, saw (for wood).
Measuring Tools: Rulers (plastic, metal), tape measure, set squares, protractors.
Joining Tools: Glue gun, various adhesives (PVA glue, UHU, contact cement), masking tape, cello tape, staples, stapler.
Shaping Tools: Sandpaper (various grits), files, carving tools (for clay/wood).
Marking Tools: Pencils, markers, pens.
Safety: Cutting mat, safety gloves (optional). 2.
6. Principles of Design in Model Making: The same principles of design apply to model making as to any art form: Scale and Proportion: Maintaining accurate size relationships between parts and to the overall model.
Balance: Achieving visual equilibrium in the model's composition.
Unity and Harmony: Ensuring all elements work together cohesively.
Rhythm and Movement: Creating a sense of flow or action.
Emphasis: Highlighting key features or focal points. --- Worked
Example: Designing and Constructing a Model of a Proposed Kiosk for a Local Nigerian Street Food Vendor Concept: A compact, mobile kiosk for selling ' suya' (grilled meat) and drinks, designed to be hygienic and visually appealing.
Design (Step 1 & 2):
1. Sketches: Initial rough sketches exploring different shapes (rectangular, octagonal), roof types (flat, pitched), and serving window positions.
2. Detailed Drawing & Scale: Decide on a scale of 1:10 (e.g., if the actual kiosk is 2m tall, the model will be 20cm tall).
Draw orthographic projections: Plan View: A top-down view showing internal layout (grill area, counter, storage).
Front Elevation: Showing the serving window, signage area.
Side Elevation: Showing the side panel, perhaps a small shelf.
Dimensions: Label all scaled dimensions (e.g., base: 20cm x 15cm, height: 20cm).
Material Selection (Step 3): Main Structure: Thick cardboard (from a used electronics carton) for walls and roof.
Counter/Shelves: Thin cardboard or matchsticks.
Wheels (Optional): Bottle caps or cut-out cardboard circles.
Signage: White paper for the 'SUYA' sign.
Details: Small pieces of colored paper/fabric for decoration.
Adhesive: PVA glue or hot glue.
Construction (Step 4):
1. Cut Base: Cut a 20cm x 15cm rectangle from thick cardboard for the base.
2. Cut Walls: Cut four wall panels according to the scaled height and width from the drawings (e.g., two 20cm x 20cm and two 20cm x 15cm). Mark and cut out the serving window on one wall.
3. Assemble Walls: Apply glue along the edges of the base and bottom edges of the wall panels. Carefully attach the wall panels perpendicularly to the base, forming a box. Secure with masking tape while the glue dries if necessary.
4. Add Internal Structures: Cut thin cardboard for the counter and shelves. Glue them in place inside the kiosk.
5. Construct Roof: Cut a rectangular piece for the roof (e.g., 22cm x 17cm, allowing for overhang) and attach it to the top edges of the walls. A pitched roof would involve cutting two trapezoidal and two rectangular pieces and gluing them together.
6. Add Wheels: If desired, glue bottle caps or cardboard circles to the bottom corners of the base.
Finishing and Detailing (Step 5):
1. Refine Edges: Trim any excess material or rough edges.
2. Paint/Color: Paint the kiosk in proposed colours (e.g., brown for wood, red for roof, white for trim) or cover with coloured paper.
3. Signage: Design and print/draw the 'SUYA' sign on white paper and glue it to the front panel above the serving 3.
1. Teacher Activities: Introduction (10 minutes): Initiate a discussion on what models are, showing images or actual examples of architectural models, product prototypes, or maquettes (e.g., for a statue in a public square). Explain the relevance of model making in various fields (architecture, industrial design, film, sculpture) within the Nigerian context. Introduce the performance objectives for the lesson.
Key Concepts Explanation (20 minutes): Clearly define "model" and elaborate on its purposes in art and design. Explain different types of models (scale, conceptual, working, maquette), providing visual examples where possible. Break down and explain the step-by-step process of model making: conceptualization, design, material selection, construction, and finishing. Discuss common tools and readily available materials in a typical Nigerian classroom/home environment.
Demonstration (15 minutes): Conduct a brief practical demonstration of basic model-making techniques: Accurate measurement and cutting of cardboard. Simple joining methods (e.g., using PVA glue, hot glue). Folding and scoring techniques for creating forms. Show how to apply a simple scale (e.g., if a real object is 50cm, a 1:10 model will be 5cm).
Design Brief & Brainstorming (15 minutes): Assign a practical design brief (e.g., "Design and construct a model of a proposed new market stall for your community" or "a model of a unique Nigerian chair"). Guide students through brainstorming initial ideas, encouraging them to consider function, aesthetics, and user experience. Emphasize sketching initial ideas and taking rough measurements. Supervised Design & Construction (60 minutes - Practical Session): Circulate among students, providing individual guidance on their designs. Review student sketches, ensuring they incorporate scale and basic dimensions. Assist with material selection and tool usage. Provide direct support and troubleshooting during the construction phase, demonstrating techniques as needed. Monitor safety practices during the use of cutting tools.
Review and Critique (10 minutes): Facilitate a brief show-and-tell session where students present their models. Encourage constructive peer critique based on design clarity, craftsmanship, and adherence to the brief. Provide summative feedback and address common challenges observed. 3.
2. Student Activities: Active Listening & Participation (Throughout): Engage in class discussions, ask questions, and share insights during the introduction and concept explanation.
Brainstorming and Sketching (15 minutes): Individually or in small groups, brainstorm ideas for the assigned design brief. Create multiple thumbnail sketches, exploring different angles, forms, and functionalities. Select a preferred design and develop a more detailed drawing, indicating proposed dimensions and scale. Material and Tool Preparation (10 minutes): Gather chosen materials (cardboard, paper, glue, etc.) and tools (ruler, scissors, craft knife, pencil) from their provided kit or classroom resources. Model Construction (50 minutes - Practical Session): Accurately measure and cut materials according to their design drawings and chosen scale. Assemble the components using appropriate joining techniques. Shape, fold, or mold materials as required by their design. Focus on neatness, precision, and adherence to their design concept.
Finishing Touches (10 minutes): Add details, textures, or colours to enhance the model's appearance. Refine edges and ensure stability. Presentation and Peer Feedback (10 minutes): Present their constructed model to the class or a small group, explaining their design choices, materials used, and the challenges faced. Provide constructive feedback to peers, focusing on the design and construction quality.
Architectural and Urban Planning in Nigeria: Application: Architectural firms in cities like Abuja, Lagos, and Port Harcourt routinely create detailed scale models of proposed residential estates, commercial skyscrapers, and public infrastructure projects (e.g., new stadia, city centers).
Impact: These models are crucial for presenting designs to clients, investors, and regulatory bodies (e.g., town planning authorities). They help visualize the project's impact on its environment, assess sunlight exposure, traffic flow, and aesthetic integration before costly construction begins, facilitating approval processes and stakeholder engagement. For instance, the Eko Atlantic City project in Lagos would have used extensive modeling in its planning and presentation stages. Product Design and Manufacturing for the Nigerian Market: Application: Nigerian industrial designers and entrepreneurs use models (prototypes) to develop new products tailored for the local market, such as innovative packaging for agricultural produce (e.g., yam flour, plantain flour), culturally inspired furniture, or efficient household appliances.
Impact: Prototyping allows designers to test the functionality, ergonomics, and aesthetic appeal of a product at a low cost. It helps identify design flaws early, iterate on improvements, and gauge market reception before investing in mass production, thereby reducing risks for local manufacturers and fostering local innovation. For example, a company designing a new, sturdy cooking pot for Nigerian kitchens would create prototypes. Public Art, Film Set Design, and Advertising: Application: Nigerian sculptors develop maquettes (small models) for large-scale public artworks or monuments commissioned by government or private entities. Nollywood art directors build miniature sets for film productions, especially for special effects or complex scene planning. Advertising agencies create models for product displays or campaign visuals.
Impact: Maquettes enable sculptors to present their vision for monuments (e.g., a statue of a historical figure in Ibadan) to commissioning bodies, securing approval for the final, full-scale work. Miniature film sets allow directors to plan camera angles, lighting, and actor movements efficiently, saving significant time and resources during actual filming. Models in advertising provide tangible, attractive representations of products, enhancing marketing campaigns.