My other works are focusing on microscopic observation of flowers and leaves taking into account colour variations, textures and other beautiful details. In this work I want to pull my focus outwards, eliminating colour and having the focus be on the forms and shapes created as well as the interesting shadows. I want to use a variety of paper weights depending on the type of flower or leaves created. This way the viewer can focus on the smaller details, folds, creases, and transparencies rather than seeing all the same type of flower, all similar paper weights which takes away from my purpose in doing this--to promote observation and awareness to our environment.
One particular comment during initial critique was that the first Chrysanthemum I had made (seen on left) were too "cartoony" or idealized rather than looking like the real thing. I believe I have addressed this issue and fixed it in my second style attempt. (seen above)
Techniques:
Here I've added some layered cardboard between pedals to add more depth and spacing between the pedals so they don't lay as flat. This is seen on Peony #2 (images above)
Still trying to resolve the issue of a flat laying flower by looking at the structure of the store bought ones which seem to have a plastic mid support piece.
Here (image below) I've used thread to string together various sizes of pedal formations to slowly build up the layers, making sure they layers don't lay evenly on top of one another. I've also been using a pencil crayon to curl edges of the paper on most of the flower types.
Styrofoam balls come in handy as a base form for the middle of certain flowers, mainly the rose formation.
Paper Types:
- Card stock - Tissue paper - Mixed Media paper
For "Dahlia #2" I've used rolling papers I collected a long time ago (finally found their purpose!) seeing as they already have an adhesive side which made it very easy to roll around a pen and create my pedals without glue. Then in a circular formation I build up the layers. Once filled, I went around with slightly smaller pedal forms and filled in any noticeable holes. I stuffed the tube-like pedal forms with crumpled tissue paper so that the base is not seen through them and acts as the centre of the flower beneath.
Chrysanthemum - card stock
Flower References - Rose, Peony, Dahlia
Nature's App - cellphone light box
Using my own references I am drawing small scale images of details, textures, and colours found within. These images will be digitally scanned and expanded in scale (4x4"). They will be laid out as seen on the iphone front App display (24 total, 4 columns, 5 rows) and displayed in a wooden cellphone shaped light box I am in the midst of making.