My Idea
For my final project proposal I was inspired by a previous project from this class which used computationally designed patterns as cookie cutters. I have also started working in tin as an artistic practice, and so I wanted to combine the two.
My initial thought was to create a sort of stamp, made out of PLA, which creates indented patterns on tin. I would create a handle to attach the patterned stamp to, with the ability to swap out different printed patterns on the handle contraption. To expand the uses of the printed designs, I started thinking of other ways to implement the printed designs artistically. With the stamp, I want to try and use an ink pad to transfer the design onto a rubber block for block printing and then carve the design out manually. With that I want to tile the prints on a piece of paper to create a large scale visualization of the pattern. Stemming from my initial post in this class, I have had an interest in pattern/computational design for fabrics and clothing design, so I am thinking of ways to implement that as well. I have a cyanotype kit which could be interesting, or just block printing on fabric with fabric ink. This portion will take a little bit more trial and error as I move on.
Regarding the designs themselves, I wanted to create three different pattern options. One should be tile-able to create the larger stamped representation. Next, I wanted one to be a circular shape with radial symmetry. Lastly, I want to create a shape that tiles in an MC Escher style.
I took a lot of inspiration from MC Escher’s work (https://mcescher.com/) and his repeating, symmetrical patterns. My last tile will be some sort of recognizable object/thing/item that is iterable.
At my parents house, they have a cool Indian woodblock stamp, which was used to create fabric patterns. This is where I got my inspiration for creating a garment (interesting paper on the technique). If I had a bit more time and resources, I would create a wooden block to print, but that’s pretty time intensive. I also may create a supplementary block for the textile portion so that I can have a multi-color print. This will also be more true to Indian-style prints.
(I’m continuing writing this post after Tuesday’s class, after learning about the tiling project, haha). Since a lot of my process and computation will be similar to the tiling assignment, I am going to work on that project first, before I decide how to proceed on which designs I choose to tile.
For my deliverables, I will have:
- 3 different tiling blocks
- A handle of sorts that the tiles attach to
- 2-3 various implementations of the stamps on tin
- A rubber stamp with one of the tiles carved into it
- A large-scale stamped tiling on paper
- One garment of some sorts with the pattern stamped on
After the tiling project is completed (11/12), I will finalize my three designs for the final project by 11/15 and create test prints for the final project check in by 11/19. This will include my handle for the stamps. After that weekend, I will have created the rubber block version and attempted some tin workings. The next few weeks will be playing around creatively with the more artistic elements of my project. On 11/23 I’ll create the large-scale tiling. I will work on creating a garment over Thanksgiving weekend. By 10/2 I will have my full set of deliverables!
Some other inspiration:
Hello Astrid! You have a really interesting idea for your project. A stamp is a nice idea that I can imagine you would be able to use for a long time. I like that you are tying your final project back into the project with tiling. I imagine that will give you the opportunity to be working on both projects at the same time to some extent. It looks like you have a reasonable timeline to get this project done. I am excited to see what you come up with!
Hey Astrid!
I think your project sounds really cool, especially combining patterns with tin stamping. The idea of having interchangeable stamps on a handle is super creative! I love that you’re drawing inspiration from MC Escher.
It sounds like you have a well-thought-out timeline for your deliverables, and I’m excited to see how your artistic exploration unfolds, particularly with the textile applications. If you’re experimenting with multi-color printing, have you considered using different ink types or even fabric dyes to enhance your designs further?
Hi Astrid,
I really like your idea of making stamps to make imprints in tin. I made an attempt to make stamps to make imprints on leather but I had limited success due to the relatively soft pla stamps. I am curious to see how your designs transfer to tin.