Gothic ArchitectureGothic Architecture

Architecture in the Gothic Period

Began around 1200 and lasted until 1600 in Western Europe.Buildings constructed during this period were the tallest up until that point. They were their version of skyscrapers.Architecture built during this period has very distinct characteristics.

Notre Dame, Paris

Construction began in 1163 but continued until the early 14th century.Probably the most famous structure from the Gothic period.

Characteristics of Gothic Architecture

Pointed (Ogival) Arches

Often in entrances into the structure and in between rooms within the building.

Ribbed Vaults on the Ceiling

Flying Buttress

Two key components: a large vertical block (the buttress) and an arch that “flies” from the block to the building.These are on the outside of the building.

Stained Glass

Windows

Gothic Architecture, continued

Gargoyles

Gargoyles

Gargoyles were present on Gothic buildings beginning in the early 1200s. Gargoyles served a purpose: to act as a waterspout that projects water from an upper part of the building to clean the walls of the building.If the form does not project water, it is called a grotesque.

GargoylesUsually carved in the form of a grotesque face, but CAN include parts of the body.Could be:

HumanAnimalMythicalImaginaryChimera (a creature made of a combination of animals)

Your assignment…To create a detailed drawing of a gargoyle face. You will use one of these when we get back from fall break for a sculpture…Begin by sketching at least 5 very different gargoyle faces in your sketchbooks.Try to use hatching and cross hatching to shade and show 3-dimensionality.Use the images of real gargoyles to inspire your drawing.

Relief Sculpture:

Derived from the Latin word levo, meaning raised.A sculptural technique that gives the impression that the images or designs are raised from the background.

Relief Sculpture, continued.

True relief sculptures are carved from a solid piece of whatever material the artist chooses.You will be doing the opposite: building up from a flat surface to give the impression of a relief sculpture.

Your AssignmentCreate a collaged stained glass window based on the windows from the Gothic cathedrals.Begin by sketching out at least 3 ideas in your sketchbook.Consider symmetry, geometric shapes (no organic shapes in real glass), and color choices.Your project must demonstrate at least ONE element of art (i.e. balance, color scheme, pattern, repetition…)You will make your stained glass on top of cardboard which will serve as your “window frame”