How did you come to consider the idea or concept of “Metamorphosis” through your work in this project? How does your work physically address that insight?
I think that my sculpture has changed and grown throughout this project. It has changed from a figure to an abstract sketch to a clay sculpture to a plaster sculpture. Through this transition I feel that my sculpture has changed to portray the motion more thoroughly. I was tying to show the viewer the tension in the arm protecting the figure, and how it cringed away from something above. I think that I did a good job in showing the movement.
How did you push yourself to gain a better understanding of the physical properties of the plaster? In what ways to you come to better control the various tools you employed?
Throughout the plaster carving process I learned a lot of helpful information on what to use each tool for, mostly through trial and error. I had to closely watch what kind of texture each tool made on the plaster, and use these attributes for the better. I also learned how plaster crumbles and how to carve the plaster without causing damage to the final product. Overall this project was a large learning experience for me.
At the beginning of the plaster carving process, I planned on making a removable head similar to that of my clay sculpture. While working with plaster I realized that making this sphere would be nearly impossible. After learning of the physical characteristics of plaster I had to change my sculpture to make it work. I am content with the changes, and am glad because I have different sculptures between my clay and plaster sculpture.
Given what you know now about the material, how might you have changed your concept or approach to working?
Now that I know about plaster, I may have not have originally planned on making a removable head. Luckily before I made irreversible changes I contemplated the shape of my sculpture and decided against the head. After completing this project I realize that I have learned a lot about working with many different materials, and which tools to use for any given situation.
