Exterior Space with Altered Peripheral Vision

Project Outcomes: 

*Create an artwork that depicts an exterior view with an altered peripheral vision*Manipulate a photographic reference to present a realistic or exaggerated distortion of the peripheral field of vision*Create an artwork that depicts a realistic illusion of three-dimensional space*Synthesize the depiction of natural perception with that of a distorted illusion*Use the Principles of Art to create an effective and engaging composition

What is Peripheral Vision?

Peripheral  vision is  a  part  of vision that  occurs  outside the  very  center  of  gaze.  There  is  a  broad  set  of  non-central points in the field of view that is included in the notion of peripheral vision. "Far peripheral" vision exists at the edges of the field of view, "mid-peripheral" vision exists  in  the  middle  of  the  field  of  view,  and  "near-peripheral",  sometimes  referred  to  as  "para-central" vision, exists adjacent to the center of gaze.

As artists we rely on our ability to focus, perceive, and render detail observed from the natural world. Years are spent trying to develop the ability to understand and see the sharp detail of our world. To a certain extent it is almost counter intuitive to use our distorted peripheral vision to perceive the world around us. This project will require you to demonstrate your ability to focus, perceive and render the detail found in an exterior space. The challenge will be to also include a natural or intentionally exaggerated distortion in the peripheral field of vision that looks resolved and deliberate.

How to Start? Prior to planning or beginning the final artwork for this project you are required to experiment and practice on a drawing in class.

1. Quickly find a printed photograph of a space in a magazine. This is a practice exercise. Please do not waste time searching for the most amazing photograph. Simply find a photograph that presents a deep space.2. Experiment with physically manipulating the actual magazine page. What happens to the image when it is bent, rolled, or crumpled? Try not to damage the paper while physically distorting the image.3. Experiment with the placement of the image in your field of view. Hold the image at different angles and see how this distorts the imagery.4. Create a monochromatic drawing of this photograph with a distorted peripheral vision. It may take a few attempts to get it right. For this drawing resist the temptation to juxtapose imagined or surreal imagery into the drawing. The outcome for this drawing is to experiment with the distortion possible in natural perception. You will get the chance to use your imagination in the final artwork.5. This practice drawing is due next class period for a practice grade. You must complete the practice drawing before beginning the final artwork.

Final Artwork You will need a photographic reference of an exterior space.  Once you have selected a photo that is your own or one that has been altered significantly from a printed photograph you may begin planning your final artwork.  You can choose to explore the natural distortion of peripheral vision exclusively or you may choose to juxtapose exaggerated or surreal imagery.  Before beginning please make sure to complete the following. 1.  Have your photograph approved by Mr. Renwick 2.  Create a quick study that works to resolve the final composition and helps to practice the technical aspects of the imagery.   3.  Have your study approved by Mr. Renwick. 

 The completed project is due Monday October 8th, 2012. 

Please see Mr. Renwick with any questions, comments, or concerns.