Scientific Principles Value Project

I am excited to being working on the Scientific Principle project.  It combines aspects of surrealism, scale, proportion, geometry, and personal inspiration in order to develop a pleasing composition.  Surrealism emphasizes that which is dreamlike and encourages subconscious approaches to art.  The resulting artwork often lacks the ability to be rationally explained.  This is a critical component in our new projects.  I find it difficult to think in an irrational way to achieve a positive outcome, however the challenge is enjoyable. 

            Scale and proportion relate to the size of objects.  They are closely tied to the emphasis of a focal point.  Also, in past centuries, scale has been used to depict and relate thematic importance.  The use of scale and proportion is an integral part of the design project.  It helps to create depth and dimension within the composition.  This dimension and depth then begins to form a visual separation between the foreground, middle ground, and background. Without the objects of various sizes placed throughout the artwork, such as the enlarged microcosm, the viewer would lose any and all sense of depth.

            Geometry is one of the basic foundations for this assignment.  Emphasis is placed upon the golden mean, the desirable middle between two extremes.  It is important that we incorporate the golden section of a rectangle into the piece using the Fibonacci number sequence.  Along with all this, the extended criteria must be met as well.  The following elements must be included: striations, a light source, contrast, perspective, cropping, and enlarging.  These elements will assist in the creation of depth and the illusion of space.

            My concept is based off of the bird of paradise flower, more formally known as Strelitzia.  I will focus on the flower as the microcosm portion of my design and will zoom in on its structure and delicate features.  Because it is native to South Africa, I plan on developing the theme of an African landscape within my piece.  This will influence my macrocosm component and will allow for a more expansive viewpoint.  For the section that is required to be inspired by the golden mean, I intend to depict a vine or plant with leaves protruding from its sides.  I would like to simplify its shapes and reducing it to its most basic structure.  This will allow me to manipulate geometric forms.  Again, I am thrilled to being working on such a project, and am prepared to take on all of the work it will require to receive a successful outcome.

Strelitzia (bird of paradise / crane flower)