Pattern universe final outcome images
Project explanation / conclusion
This project has its birth in the study of pattern as observed in the natural world. Within the universe there is evidence of an underlying order, structure and connectedness of all things. These patterns are probably too numerous to comprehend, however even the study of one aspect of one of these patterns contains multiple delights and challenges for the artist to explore and develop.
Practically, the project involved learning a set of core skills (screen printing, the creation of cardboard forms and the use of the Illustrator design software pen tool). The student was then left free to use at least two of these techniques to explore some aspect of pattern in the natural world.
My initial approach involved drawing a range of thumbnail sketches (reproduced below). I decided to explore a variety of approaches although I decided from the beginning they would all have an organic basis and be brightly coloured. A number of artists were also researched for the project and turned out to be very influential (these are covered below):
Research
The project was influenced by the paper cut out (gouches decoupes), works of Henri Matisse (France, 1869 – 1954). In 1941, following a cancer diagnosis and subsequent surgery, Matisse began using a wheelchair. Although he was to live another 14 years, over this period he largely restricted himself to this technique, which he called painting with scissors. The works were typically on a grand scale and would often end up posted on Matisse’s studio walls. Matisse also employed cut outs that he designed for the stained-glass windows for the Chapel du Rosaire. The project was to take four years to complete; it was described by Matisse as the production of an “entire life of work.”
Matisse, H. (1869 – 1954). Various cut-out works
The Matisse cut-outs were brilliantly coloured, joyful and typically created for display on a wall or for reproduction as posters (some were created for book illustration).
In 1930 Matisse visited the South Pacific island of Tahiti. The images he gathered on this trip were very influential on his cut out work, which commonly featured the leaves, shapes and colours from the island.
There is little doubt that aspects of these motifs can be observed in my work (although I did not set out to consciously copy Matisse’s work). His use of bright bold colour work has plainly influenced me; as are his use of repeating reproductions of a motif. The way he spaced his work over a geographical area has also been an influence.
Sara Hughes
Another artist who has informed me in my work is Sara Hughes (born in Canada 1971, now living in New Zealand). Hughes has established a reputation for her bold architectural patterns that occupy a ‘space and place’.
Frequently her work involves repeating patterns, each rendered in its own distinct colour combination. Her work is nearly always displayed in a space such as a wall, stairwell or even on a ceiling. Sometimes her motifs overlap; on other occasions they are spread broadly over a large area.
Hughes, S. (1971 – ). Various works.
There is little doubt that Hughes has also been influential on my approach to this work. Her large-scale architectural patterns have plainly influenced me in the way I have spaced the work in its locale. Her use of bold colours and repeating patterns also resonate in what I have done.
Please find below the gallery notice used for this work:
The reader can note I have developed the work around an environmental / conservation ethic. It is certainly my desire for the viewer to consider the beauty and right to existence of all creatures, whether they be simple forms or complex animals.
In conclusion
I have particularly enjoyed this project partly because it has enabled me to combine a range of recently learned skills and apply these to a project of my choosing.
If I was doing this again in a real world situation I would like to create a larger range of creatures and reproduce these in a range of sizes, including some giant sized. It would be my dream to cover an entire gallery wall.
The use of a computer-controlled cutter perhaps using commercial vinyl (a technique commonly used by Hughes) would assist in reproducing the creatures.
The project has reinforced to me the amazing variety and complexity of patterns in the natural world. To be even able to explore and attempt to capture one of these has been a challenge, but also a delight. Nature is special.
This gallery contains 15 photos
The art of life 