Activity Three

It is time to learn about planar distortion. This activity sequence is all about taking a flat object and forming it into a 3-Dimensional object.

TASK
You will need to create 12 different 3-D planar distortions with index cards.

MATERIALS

• pack of 3x5 index cards
• half sheet of cardboard
• glue
• tape

PROCEDURE

1. take an index card and change its appearance by slits, notches, scoring, creases, and subtracting
2. make the same cuts to another index card and this time warp, twist, pinch, fold, and overlap it
3. use glue or tape to make sure the distortion stays together
4. make 11 more of these(you should have 24 cards when you are done)
5. once you have your 12 distortions, cut a half sheet of cardboard lengthwise and grid out 12 even rectangles(6 on top, 6 on bottom)
6. mount your first flat and distorted cards in a block, then keep doing this until you have filled all 12 blocks with

Here is an example of a planar distortion:

Now you can begin the graded experiment.

(If you would like to see more examples of planar distortion go to www.latech.edu/tech/liberal-arts/architecture/Arch120.htm)

GRADED EXPERIMENT

For this experiment, you will be constructing a sunshade and a rigid structural framing system to support it. The sunshade can be a wall, roof, or skylight. It is up to you.

The Site: A sunshade footprint of 12"x24" and a rigid frame suspended or resting between 2"-6" above the cardboard footprint

MATERIALS:

• 3x5 index cards
• steel rods
• floral wire
• skewers
• tape
• glue
• cardboard

PROCEDURE:

1. cut out a 12"x24" peice of cardboard for your base
2. build a rigid structural framing system
3. create a 3-D planar distortion with the index cards(either make the same one over and over or make a few distortions and connect them in a pattern)
4. connect the distortions in a pattern to form a sunshade
5. connect the sunshade to the frame

Make sure your distortions create a nice shadow when held under a light.

Here are some examples:

EVALUATION: Craftsmanship, function, aesthetics, and invention will determine your grade

To see other examples of this project click here http://www.latech.edu/tech/liberal-arts/architecture/Arch120Manuals.htm