3D Materials and Concepts: Paper Architecture Assignment Guidelines

Assignment
Construct 35 three-dimensional shapes. Assemble all shapes to create a final solution inspired by architectural concepts.

Objective
An introductory exercise to three-dimension. Transform a plane to create shapes with height, width and depth. Explore the spatial relationship of shapes through assembling. Consider how the shapes and spatial relationships can visually communicate spatial ideas and provide structure stability. Practice measuring skills.

Materials

Rives White BFK Paper, 22" x 30", 5 sheets. Save all scraps for possible use in future assignments.
Cut matt. Please do not cut on the studio tables or counter.
Exacto knife and extra blades
Ruler
Pencil
Bone Folder
Rubber Cement
A ball point pen can be helpful for scoring the paper.

Inspiration
"Paper Architecture Artists" category, see right column. If viewing this blog on your phone and right category column does not appear, go to bottom of page and select "web version".

Student Examples
"Paper Architecture Student Work" category, see right column. If viewing this blog on your phone and right category column does not appear, go to bottom of page and select "web version".

Step 1

Construct shapes.
Refer to below list regarding the number and types of shapes required.
Connector shapes are the only shapes that have open ends. All other shapes must be enclosed.
Videos are also included to assist with basic construction methods.
Do not use Origami folding methods.
No need to plan out final solution when constructing individual shapes. Once all individual shapes complete, respond with design decisions.
Due to Covid-19, you will need a box or large, sturdy shopping bag to transport shapes back and forth to class.
Remember to take in-process images. At least one in-process image required.

Step 2

Photograph each category of shapes.
Arrange each category of shapes on a clean background.
Photograph from above (aerial view). When viewing the images, I should be able to clearly see all shapes.

Step 3

Bring all shapes on scheduled day for photographing. This date announced in class.
Before you begin assembling, make sure I check off how many shapes you have.

Step 4

Once checklist complete, begin to assemble your shapes.
Once you decide where "connectors" will be used, create a "negative" space (hole) to "connect" shapes. Use Exacto knife to make a small "x" in the surface area where the connecter will enter the shape.
Make sure you continually move around the sculpture as you assemble.
Consider the relationship of shapes/space created from all angles.
Observe relationships of negative and positive space.
Strive for visual innovation as well as visual balance.
Consider creating an area with more detail that stands out among minimal relationships (focal point). Or create smaller areas of detail, carefully placed across the the entire sculpture.
Strive for an innovative final solution.
Must use all shapes.
Do not glue shapes to one another. This project is to be thought of as portable - think building blocks.

Step 5

Once shapes are assembled, you can can photograph.
You will need a black background. I have black cloth and foam board in the studio for students.
Several people needed to photograph a final solution. Therefore, we will all work together to achieve successful photographs.
Need a total of five photos (make sure you take more than five). Three different angles and two details (close up of areas that are the most interesting/innovative).

Step 6

After photographing, place all shapes in a bag.
Make sure name on bag.
I will spend time evaluating the construction of shapes and return to student after grading complete.

Number and Types of Shapes Required

Keep scrolling to see visual examples and how-to videos.

Category 1

Connectors

Total of Sixteen (16) Shapes.
Eight (8) cylinders and eight (8) beams. Between 4" and 10" in length. Connecters should be somewhat thin - no wider than 1/2" in diameter. Connecters will have "open" ends.

Cylinders - Circular/round (8).
Beams - Not circular/rounded, have edges and planes (8).

Category 2

Main Shapes

Total of ten (10). One of each shape listed below.
Two (2) of each. The shortest length/diameter is 2". No larger than 6".

Cube (2) (different sizes)
Right Pyramid (2) (different sizes)
Disc (2) (different sizes)
Cylinder (2) (no open ends) (essentially a "tall" disc) (different sizes)
Cone (1)
Rectangle (1)

Category 3

Shapes With A Recessed Area

Total of two (2). One of each shape listed below.
One (1) each. The shortest length is 4". No larger than 6". Recessed area at least 1" x 1". A recessed area is a negative space constructed into the shape. See "Paper Architecture Student Examples" in the right column categories for an example of a recessed area.

Cube With Recessed Area (1)
Rectangle With Recessed Area (1)

Category 4

Supporting Shapes

Total of seven (7).

Think innovate for all these shapes - do not produce basic shapes as you did in previous categories.
Use a variation of a basic shape. Or you can invent your own shapes and/or search online for complex templates.
All shapes must be enclosed. No openings.
Creating additional shapes with recessed areas is considered innovative.
No shape should be smaller than 1.5 inches.
The right column category "Paper Architecture Artists" offers visuals for a few innovative shapes. Many templates available online. The search "paper shape templates" is a good start.

Post the following information on your blog:

An image for each category of shapes (Connectors, Main Shapes, Recessed Shapes, Supporting Shapes). Refer to "Step 2" regarding the format for the photographs.
Five (5) professional images of final solution against a black background. Three different angles and two details (close up of areas that are the most interesting/innovative).
At least one in-process image.