(Un)Common Objects
ART252: Image
Professor: Kristen Pericleous
For (Un)Common Objects, I was asked to create a composition based off of marks I made with random objects and descriptive words. The goal was to challenge our ability to make meaning from images and concepts. Through this project, I gained a better understanding of Adobe Photoshop while learning new skills relating to design.
To start the project, I was given three random objects: a plastic necklace, hose spout, and a kinder egg toy. This is where the mark making began. I took each object and dipped it in black acrylic paint. I dropped, dragged, smeared, and more to create different marks. Once I had my marks, I had to come up with words for at least ten different marks. I met with a small group to critique our word choices and possibly give new suggestions. Next, we needed to brainstorm ideas for two words and mark combinations.
While most of my classmates were inspired by their marks, I was most inspired by my words. I originally thought up the word tentacle, but as I researched synonyms of tentacle I came across tentaculum (a stiff hair around the mouth, or on the face, of animals.) Instantly, I imagined a hairy, suffocating composition - I was not aware if I even had the marks to create the idea. However, after evaluating the marks, I knew I could make it work.
It was time to start working in Photoshop, which was very new territory for me. I started by scanning each mark with adobe capture then masking each detail I wanted to incorporate. I used the selection tool to create copies of each element while arranging and layering to create my desired effect with tufts of hair. Throughout the process, I ran into issues and worked through it the best I could - the complications taught me many lessons which will benefit me in future applications. Once my composition was near the final stages, I adjusted elements accordingly from constructive criticism and my own judgement before printing.
The final product provided context for the word without being cliche or obvious. Tentaculum is not a word most people have readily available in their vocabulary. With a mostly black background, the “hairs” can be seen gravitating towards the center. The words integrate with the background, as if the letters are areas where the hairs were dispersed. It pulls the viewer in to question what the creature is. The circular composition allows it to create a suffocating feeling as well as easy readability.
