Project: Synthesis
Objective:
Students will create a cohesive and meaningful artwork that synthesizes two or more themes, styles, or techniques studied during the semester. The project should reflect personal insights and demonstrate an understanding of artistic concepts, styles, and mediums.
Project Guidelines:
1. Choose Your Themes:
Select at least two projects or themes we explored this semester. Some options include:
○ Identity/Self-Portrait: Explore who you are and your place in the world.
○ Starry Night: Use expressive, dynamic brushstrokes to evoke emotion and movement.
○ O'Keeffe Flower: Focus on magnification, abstraction, and the beauty of natural forms.
○ Thiebaud Cupcake: Highlight repetition, color, texture, and playful realism.
○ Andy Goldsworthy: Utilize natural materials and ephemeral processes to connect with the environment.
○ Ecology/Climate Change Postage Stamp: Address pressing environmental issues through design and symbolism.
○ Artist Podcast
○ Tara Donovan
2. Blend and Innovate:
Combine techniques, styles, or conceptual approaches from your chosen themes into one artwork. For example:
○ Create a self-portrait using the color palette and expressive strokes of Starry Night.
○ Design a climate change-themed postage stamp inspired by the scale and abstraction of O'Keeffe’s flowers.
○ Merge Andy Goldsworthy’s use of natural materials with a Thiebaud-inspired focus on pattern and composition.
3. Art Medium:
You may work in any medium appropriate for your chosen themes, such as:
○ Painting
○ Drawing
○ Collage
○ Mixed media
○ Photography
○ Sculpture
○ Digital art
4. Reflection Paper:
Accompany your artwork with a 1–2 page reflection paper that explains:
○ Why you selected these themes.
○ How your project synthesizes the chosen themes.
○ What techniques or styles you applied and why.
○ Any personal connection or meaning in your work.
Project Timeline:
● Proposal Due: Submit a one-paragraph description of your concept by Dec. 3.
● Work-in-Progress Check: Bring a draft or progress photo of your project to class on Dec. 5 or Dec. 10.
● Final Artwork and Reflection Due: Dec 12 (there won't be a presentation - this is a work session day.
Assessment Criteria:
Your final project will be evaluated based on:
1. Conceptual Depth (30%) – Clear synthesis of two or more themes; thoughtful integration of ideas.
2. Artistic Execution (30%) – Use of techniques, craftsmanship, and attention to detail.
3. Originality and Creativity (20%) – Innovative approach to combining themes and mediums.
4. Reflection (20%) – Insightful analysis of your choices and processes.