FMP reflective journal
Time management:
My original time management plan was to divide my work the following
way:
Week 1
1-6/5
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Exploring
materials and how they show when being projected onto.
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Week 2
8-13/5
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Building
the stand and placing it
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Week 3 15-20/5
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Start
placing the materials onto the stand and decide what needs to be hung off the
ceiling.
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Week 4
22-27/5
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Installing
the ceiling piece and placing sources of light (projectors)
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Week 5
29/5 – 3/6
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Finalizing
the location of the projectors, finishing placing the central construction
and securing it.
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Week 6
5-10/6
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Final
adjustments of projectors, and central constructions
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Week 7
12, 13/6
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Setting
up – finishing touches if need be.
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Week 7
14/6
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Exhibition
day: Turn on the projectors and radio.
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In reality,
things have slightly changed according to other people’s time tables and my
dependency on them.
Due to the nature of my project, I feel I am all over the place: I am dependent on the availability of the photography technicians for assistant with video and lights, i am dependent on assistance from the 3D workshop staff with set up accessories and I am mostly dependent on my tutor with placing things in the space in the best way possible.
Due to the nature of my project, I feel I am all over the place: I am dependent on the availability of the photography technicians for assistant with video and lights, i am dependent on assistance from the 3D workshop staff with set up accessories and I am mostly dependent on my tutor with placing things in the space in the best way possible.
The first
thing I needed to do is to secure my exhibition space. Due to other
commitments, it was essential that I know where I am and I can start placing my
installation as soon as possible.
It was important to be clear while presenting my arguments for asking this specific space. I know it is not directly associated with the course, but being able to argue for myself and be clear and persuasive is a skill I believe I will benefit from in the future, if I ever find myself in a similar situation.
It was important to be clear while presenting my arguments for asking this specific space. I know it is not directly associated with the course, but being able to argue for myself and be clear and persuasive is a skill I believe I will benefit from in the future, if I ever find myself in a similar situation.
Knowing
that my space is secured took a lot of pressure of me and allowed me to focus
on what I need to do next, which is placing my installation.
How I chose to document the process:
I have
agreed with Keith that my supportive documentation system will be by filming
the process of putting up the installation. This will allow me to focus on my
work and still show evidence of how I work. The idea is to present the video
files in a form of time-lapse edited video(s). It also allows me to talk
through my work and focus on problems or processes I am dealing with Ed-Hock. I
am still thinking how to present the problems, if I should stop the time laps
on a certain point to show how I am dealing with it or if I should reflect on
it in this journal. I am thinking of reflecting here as it will save time while
editing the videos.
Problem: My initial idea was to use a video
camera, placing it on a tripod outside my cube space. I also wanted to be able
to take it with me as I work in different studios such as the 3D studio etc.
Keith suggested I speak to Sarah, our photography tutor so we can decide on the best way of doing that. Sarah has offered to let me use a SLR camera that can take up to 20 minutes videos (Max usage of the memory card) – it was not a very good solution to my needs. We also thought about taking stills photos every few seconds and edit that later on, but that wouldn’t allow me to speak and present my work (and issues I am coming across while working). We thought a Go-Pro camera might be a good device to use, so I looked into this option too. Solution to the problem: The best idea we came up with was to use my phone camera as it does answer all my needs. The problem with using my phone was the limited space on my card.
I ordered a bigger SD card for my phone and over the weekend I tested it and set the settings to save all video files onto the SD card and leave all other input (such as photos) saved onto the camera storage. This will allow me the maximum space without taking any additional space of the card.
Keith suggested I speak to Sarah, our photography tutor so we can decide on the best way of doing that. Sarah has offered to let me use a SLR camera that can take up to 20 minutes videos (Max usage of the memory card) – it was not a very good solution to my needs. We also thought about taking stills photos every few seconds and edit that later on, but that wouldn’t allow me to speak and present my work (and issues I am coming across while working). We thought a Go-Pro camera might be a good device to use, so I looked into this option too. Solution to the problem: The best idea we came up with was to use my phone camera as it does answer all my needs. The problem with using my phone was the limited space on my card.
I ordered a bigger SD card for my phone and over the weekend I tested it and set the settings to save all video files onto the SD card and leave all other input (such as photos) saved onto the camera storage. This will allow me the maximum space without taking any additional space of the card.
How to project the installation onto the wall:
I started
looking at few projecting sources:
1.
an old photo
projector, the kind that used to place a transparent image on a surface and by
using mirrors it project an enlarged image onto a wall/screen:
The problem
with this projector was mainly the lack of space in my exhibition area. In
order to create a wide framed area this type of projector needs to be further
away from the installation and I only have a limited space available. Another
thing is, because I only need to use the top bit of the projector, and due to
its height, had I chose to use it I would have ended up blocking the view.
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2.
I also looked at a light table, but mostly used it
to examine the transparency of materials. The light it produces is not strong
enough and definitely cannot project on to an opposite wall.
3.
The best projector available was an old slide
projector. There are few of them at college and as far as I know, no one else
uses them. The idea was to use 2-3 of them to create a wide light area in the
shape of a semi-circle.
This light is strong enough, it doesn’t take a
lot of space and while exploring the use of different materials it performed
well from every angle I positioned it.
Problem and solution:
It only works with the slide cassette in it so I
needed to go through all the slides until I found one that had nothing
printed on it. Using a slide also distributes the light in a softer and
evenly way.
I also tried some of the printed slides but it
did not contribute to the outcome. It didn’t really harm the projected image,
but changed it a bit. I didn’t see any reason why using other slides apart
from the “empty” one.
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4.
At some point during my experimenting process I
used another slide projector by placing it next to the first one and over it.
This created a distortion on the wall, which was very interesting in one hand
but not what I had in mind. I am planning on using the second projector by
placing it closer to the installation main piece (bottom piece) in a way it
will produce more light on the front items. I am still investigating it and
will reflect more on the subject.
Testing materials:
One of my
initial ideas while researching for the first part of the project was to use mostly
recycled materials and avoid buying new materials or spend unnecessary money on
items I will not use in the future therefore I am aiming to use any material
that can be found firstly in every house hold (such as bottles, tins, cans, old
clothes, broken toys etc.) and also re-use materials that can be found in the
studios at college.
I started
by collecting acrylic scrapes from the 3D studio. The acrylic is transparent
and often colourful and it can contribute to the presentation of my idea. I
love using bright colours in my work and enjoy surrounding myself with colourful
(and often shiny) items, so my personal definition of beauty involves using
colours.
Fabrics:
I used different types of fabrics in different colours. My assumption was that using different colours will create an interesting scene, however, I completely ignored the fact that it doesn’t matter what colour I use the materials will cast the same shadow. In fact, what changes the projected object is the type and density of material I am using not its colour.
I used different types of fabrics in different colours. My assumption was that using different colours will create an interesting scene, however, I completely ignored the fact that it doesn’t matter what colour I use the materials will cast the same shadow. In fact, what changes the projected object is the type and density of material I am using not its colour.
Bottles:
Another item I was curious about is plastic bottles: I managed to collect few sizes and shapes, some with stripes, others with dimples and bumps, some thicker than the others. I was interested to see what they will look like when bent and twisted. The result was interesting: the projection showed something that reminded me of ripples and clouds, depending on the type of bottle I used.
I was curious to find out if using colour will contribute to the scene: the first option was to use little bits of acrylic plates and simply throw them in the bottle and hope for the best. That could have led to a nice result or a not so nice one, depending on how they end up in the bottle. Although the project is an experimental one, this option was ruled out as it leaves too much in the hands of luck. The second option is what I chose to use: pieces of cellophane placed along the curves and bents of the bottle. I managed to put the cellophane in by using the end of a very long paint brush. At first I had to bend the bottle to get the shape I wanted then open it so I can push the cellophane in, and then bend the bottle again.
Another item I was curious about is plastic bottles: I managed to collect few sizes and shapes, some with stripes, others with dimples and bumps, some thicker than the others. I was interested to see what they will look like when bent and twisted. The result was interesting: the projection showed something that reminded me of ripples and clouds, depending on the type of bottle I used.
I was curious to find out if using colour will contribute to the scene: the first option was to use little bits of acrylic plates and simply throw them in the bottle and hope for the best. That could have led to a nice result or a not so nice one, depending on how they end up in the bottle. Although the project is an experimental one, this option was ruled out as it leaves too much in the hands of luck. The second option is what I chose to use: pieces of cellophane placed along the curves and bents of the bottle. I managed to put the cellophane in by using the end of a very long paint brush. At first I had to bend the bottle to get the shape I wanted then open it so I can push the cellophane in, and then bend the bottle again.
Using a
prism:
As I based my project on light, I had to learn the basic scientific methodology. I learned about Refraction-the bending of light rays when passing through a surface between one transparent material and another, and how to break the light by using a prism.
I started by looking at materials I can use to construct a prism. Luckily, there was a left over acrylic block at the 3D workshop and David was very kind to cut it for me and explaining how to polish it.
As I based my project on light, I had to learn the basic scientific methodology. I learned about Refraction-the bending of light rays when passing through a surface between one transparent material and another, and how to break the light by using a prism.
I started by looking at materials I can use to construct a prism. Luckily, there was a left over acrylic block at the 3D workshop and David was very kind to cut it for me and explaining how to polish it.
Once the right shape was cut, I needed to smooth
the panels with a sharp blade, scraping all sides over and over and over again
until it is all clear. Both David and I agreed it would be wise to buy one
should I decide to use it as acrylic blocks cost a fortune and who knows what
size/how long/how many of them I will decide to use eventually.
Setting up the space for my installation:
I wanted to
set the installation in a way that there will be a background and the main
scenery.
In order to create the background I thought of hanging the objects from the ceiling:
In order to create the background I thought of hanging the objects from the ceiling:
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I didn’t want to staple the wires to the ceiling because I was not sure of the exact location and how objects will look when placed together. Because this was a lot of a try and error process, I chose to use poles across the ceiling, on which I can hang each individual piece.
Knowing I
want to use something to hang the pieces from, I had to think of a material
that will be flexible enough yet very strong. Although it will not have to take
a lot of weight, I wouldn’t want it to snap or collapse at any point during set
up or exhibiting.
I decided to use timber cut to different lengths and push it in various angles into the space. Because it is very flexible, it will not break and will hold using pressure onto the sides of the cubicle.
I decided to use timber cut to different lengths and push it in various angles into the space. Because it is very flexible, it will not break and will hold using pressure onto the sides of the cubicle.
For the bottom bit of my installation I was planning on building and placing a stand made out of acrylic plates.
Ideally this planning looks very attractive but after consulting with Keith, we have decided not to go further with this idea for few reasons:
1. Costs of acrylic plates.
2. The time it will take to put all the bits together and let the glue dry (in this case – silicon).
3. We could not predict how stable the structure will be.
Setting up the background (top) piece:
After studying my space and materials it is time to start setting up the scenery that
will be hung up from the ceiling. The first thing I needed to do was to take
out the chair I was using and replace it with an appropriate stool that I can
stand on.
For the background piece I chose to use mostly bottles and cellophane. I started with twisting the bottles and cutting little bits of the cellophane to put inside. After twisting the bottle the reflection on the wall will be uneven and all the twists will break the light beam coming through the bottle and will make an interesting texture like image.
For the background piece I chose to use mostly bottles and cellophane. I started with twisting the bottles and cutting little bits of the cellophane to put inside. After twisting the bottle the reflection on the wall will be uneven and all the twists will break the light beam coming through the bottle and will make an interesting texture like image.
I used a needle to punch holes in the bottles and thread the
fishing wire through it. In every bottle I used two sources: one closer to the
lid and one closer to the bottom. Once deciding on how I want to place the
bottles, I used hot glue gun to make sure the bottles stick together.
Problems and solutions:
1.
As I relay on the projector
when setting up the scenery, I often stand between the light and the wall and
casting a big shadow over parts of the scenery. There is not much I can do
about it while working, and in fact, sometimes I need to imagine what the
outcome would look like and hope for the best. The more I do this I can predict
the outcome more accurately, but the first two hours of the setup were a
journey up and down the stool trying to get the correct height and distance
from the wall.
2.
At this stage I am working
with one projector placed in one corner of the cubicle. Whenever I am using
another projector the scenery changes and the shadows/reflections change with
it. I cannot predict the final outcome at this point.
3.
The walls in the cubicle
are painted black, but probably different types of paint or a very bad paint
job. There are lines showing on the wall and I had to make a firm decision if I
want to use white background (I have tested some of the reflections on a white
board)? If I want to re-paint the wall? Or maybe leave it as is? Choosing to
leave the wall as is may distract the audience from the main scenery but I
think it does contribute to the general feeling of chaos I am trying to
achieve.
An interesting thing I found was that the
closer I am to the source of light – the bigger the scene will look on the
wall. This is one thing I am curious to find more about when placing the bottom
piece: how the two pieces will interact.
Trying to use different projectors
After setting up the top scenery I wanted to try using
different projectors. My first choice was to use a very bright light that will
hopefully be placed far enough from the main piece and will create a reflection
big enough on the entire back wall of the cubicle.
With the help of the photography team we managed to set up a very powerful and bright projector. Our main concern was the heath it will produce and obviously being placed in a cubicle with not enough air circulation.
Putting the projector on a stand (yellow) to make sure it will not touch the floor was one step and then adding another stand to give it the right angle (blue).
Putting the projector on a stand (yellow) to make sure it will not touch the floor was one step and then adding another stand to give it the right angle (blue).
I decided to place the stand at the front of the cubicle to
make sure it reflects an accurate rectangle frame onto the wall.
Problems: the light is too strong and the scenery is not projected onto
the wall.
Solution: I will go back to using the slide projector.
I
have decided to align the projectors in the front of the cubicle knowing that
there will be a limited view on the opposite wall (a square/rectangle view
instead of a semi-circle view like I initially planned) after testing many
angles and light sources. The reason I chose this was due to different light
brightness and strengths that were beyond my control. Having to deal with
existing equipment that often has no replacing components pushed me towards this
decision but I am happy with the way it resulted. Having enough time to try and
err really benefit me in this aspect. 
The projector at the back casts a stronger light beam that
effects the whole scenery (Top and Bottom) while the front projector emphasises
some elements on the bottom piece and changes it appearance on the opposite
wall.
Ideally, I would love to give the audience the option to
play with the lights and see how it effects the scenery, however, for reasons
of health and safety, and due to this project being a college exhibition and
not a gallery or a museum one, I will have to decide for the audience and set
the projector(s) prior to the opening of the exhibition.
Setting up the bottom piece:
I have decided to use a big acrylic sheet to allow the light
to shine from under it as well as through the objects that are placed on top of
it and blocking the light. Using such big sheet was possible thanks to other
works at college that required the use of such big (and expensive) material. I
was offered to use it “as is”, meaning I had to work around the size (trimming
a bit of the sides but not cutting it to smaller pieces).
Problems and solutions:
Placing the sheet between the two walls was a good idea but
I also needed something to support the middle and stop it from bending. Again, I
was lucky to have found some leftover acrylic cylinders. I wasn’t sure how long
I need them to be, and I wasn’t sure they will fit at all, so I also took some
cardboard ones, thinking I can always drill holes in the cardboard if need be
to allow light through it. Luckily, the acrylic cylinder was almost the right
length, and all I needed to do to adjust if to my needs was to place few more
leftover pieces of acrylic under it to get to the right height that supports
the construction.
Shaping the bottles
Using plastic bottles was a good idea as they are see-through
and therefore I could add colour and manipulate them to my needs, however,
while on the top piece I have only twisted the bottles and wasn’t fully in
control of the final result, I wanted to have a better control this time so I decided
to use heat that will allow me to work freely without the limitation of the
plastic.
My first thought was to use the vacuum former, but it was the wrong tool for the job I had in mind. It did heat up the bottles but it wasn’t enough to work with them.
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I then decided to use heating gun that will allow me to work
in smaller areas and decide how much heath I will use over each area by placing
it closer or further from the bottle as well as controlling the settings.
How the audience view the installation
At the moment I’m having some thoughts on how to let the
audience view my installation. Because the cubicle is raised about 40 cm above
floor level the hung piece is in the way of the audience and the back wall,
allowing only limited view of the projection. I am aiming towards building a
ramp on which the viewers can stand to have full vision of the piece itself and
the projection it casts on the wall. Hopefully I will be able to use an already
built stairs that are not currently in use (rumours say the drama department
may have them available…) but if not, I will have to build something strong and
safe or leave it as is.
Due to other commitments, I had to leave this to the last
minute, allowing myself only few hours to come up with a satisfying solution. Fingers
crossed it will all be ready on time for the final exhibition.
Costs:
Throughout the project I aimed to save as much as possible
and to use mostly available resources. I allowed myself a budget of up to £100,
when everything I purchase will be usable for me in the future. I am happy to
see that my expenses were kept to minimum and that my biggest one is something
that will be usable for future projects and other none art related needs.
Total amount spent on the project
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Prism + lens
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£15
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Cellophane
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£6
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SD card
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£25
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