GCSE Three-Dimensional Design WJEC

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  1. Three-Dimensional Design 20 topics
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This page was last modified on 28 September 2024.

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Three-Dimensional Design

Three-Dimensional Design

3D Design: Architectural Design

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3D Design: Architectural Design

Architectural Design Basics

  • Architectural design is the method of organising spaces and creating forms, considering aesthetic, function and context.
  • It centres around planning, designing and constructing forms, space and ambience.
  • Principles include unity, balance, hierarchy, scale and proportion, emphasis, and rhythm.

Drawing and Modelling

  • Architectural designs often begin with sketches but also need to be translated into technical drawings.
  • Technical drawings may include plans, sections, elevations and details.
  • Modelling in 3D, either manually or digitally, is crucial for visualising the design.
  • Digital tools include software like SketchUp, AutoCAD, 3DS Max, and Rhino.

Architectural Styles and Influences

  • Architectural designs are influenced by social, political, technological and historical factors.
  • Understanding various architectural styles is key, from classical to modern, and postmodern.
  • Iconic architects' work and philosophies should be explored, such as Frank Lloyd Wright, Le Corbusier, Zaha Hadid, and Norman Foster.

Environmental and Ethical Considerations

  • Sustainable design techniques are crucial, including energy efficiency, choosing sustainable materials and minimising waste.
  • Consideration of the design's impact on its users and communities is also important.
  • Universal Design (Inclusive Design) ensures usability and accessibility for people with varied abilities.

Prototyping and Testing

  • Prototyping allows for testing and refining the design.
  • Receiving feedback on a prototype can result in design improvements.
  • Different methods of prototyping include scale models, virtual 3D models, or detailed sections.

Construction and Materials

  • Knowledge of various construction techniques is important.
  • Selection of materials plays a critical role. Choices influence the design's aesthetics, performance, sustainability and cost.
  • Different types of materials include glass, steel, concrete, wood, etc., each with unique considerations.

Health and Safety Considerations

  • The building’s structural integrity to withstand loads and environmental factors should be considered.
  • Adequate fire safety measures, including means of escape and containment, need to be implemented.
  • Designing for safety in use, e.g., slip-resistant surfaces, adequate lighting, should be considered.

Course material for Three-Dimensional Design, module Three-Dimensional Design, topic 3D Design: Architectural Design

Three-Dimensional Design

Three-Dimensional Design

3D Design: Sculpture

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3D Design: Sculpture

Sculpture Basics

  • Sculpture is a branch of the visual arts that operates in three dimensions.
  • Sculptures can be created from a wide variety of materials, including clay, wood, metal, glass, or stone.
  • The two main approaches to creating a sculpture are additive (building up material) and subtractive (removing material).

Types of Sculpture

  • Relief sculpture is highly suitable for wall mounting and has elements attached to a solid background.
  • Statues are representations of a figure and are usually life-size or larger.
  • Busts are the head, neck and often the upper chest of a figure.
  • Kinetic sculptures incorporate movement, either from wind or motorised parts.

Sculpting Techniques

  • Modelling is a process of shaping soft materials.
  • Casting involves pouring a liquid material into a mould, which then hardens.
  • Carving is a subtractive method where material is chiselled out.
  • Welding involves joining pieces of metal together by heating their surface.

Creation and Conceptualisation

  • A successful sculpture design often requires sketches, drawings, and concept maps.
  • It is important to examine and consider the context, purpose, and location of the finished sculpture.
  • Creating small maquettes or study models is useful for visualising the final work.

Influences and Styles

  • The style and themes can be influenced by a variety of factors such as personal experiences, contemporary issues, historical periods, or specific cultures.
  • There are various ways to categorise sculptures, ranging from specific movements such as modernism, postmodernism, through to figurative vs abstract art.

Conservation and Preservation

  • Understanding how to preserve and maintain a sculpture's physical appearance over time is a key aspect of sculptural work.
  • Factors such as weather, temperature, and pollution can impact the life of a sculpture, especially when exhibited outdoors.

Health and Safety

  • Understanding the potential risks and hazards associated with different materials and processes is vital.
  • The use of protective clothing, good ventilation, and proper waste disposal are all necessary to ensure a safe environment when creating sculptures.

Critique and Reflection

  • It is important to reflect on and critique your own work to identify strength and areas for improvement.
  • Using the critical opinion of others as feedback is useful for development and improvement.
  • Evaluation should focus on concept, design, production, and the final result.

Sculpting Material Considerations

  • Diverse materials have different properties that will affect the sculpting process as well as the final outcome.
  • Materials affect not only the building process but also the visual characteristics, such as colour and texture.
  • Material's resilience over time and external conditions is also an important consideration.

Course material for Three-Dimensional Design, module Three-Dimensional Design, topic 3D Design: Sculpture

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