This project focused on developing a narrative that represents deep space. Through a combination of layering techniques and the application of grey scale to emphasize depth, we were able to construct these interpretive stories with paper and experiment with 2D and 3D attachment styles that express volume in the design.
Research
After honing in on my concept of portraying deep space through the addictiveness of the internet and our cell phones, I created a compilation of inspiration photos that were portraying some of the same ideas I wanted to in my design. I also read about the psychology behind why and how we’ve become so attached to our phones and the effect that the pandemic has had on increasing our already addictive habits.
Experiments
Text Figure, Ground, and Closure
Our first experiment was as much focused on learning the ins and outs of the laser cutter as it was practicing digital vector drawings and how they would be cut on the machine. I chose to only work with my first initial and after brainstorming how I could incorporate something about me into the design, I landed on dance. My other options spanned from traveling to my love of coffee, but dance is something that has defined me for as long as I can remember so I felt the most inspiration when coming up with ideas. I created a few iterations of how I would “hide” the pointe shoes into the letter and ultimately decided that the laces of the shoes could make up the arch of the ‘A’. To make the final cut out, I used mat board so it was thick and stiff enough to hold together especially on the thinner parts. I didn’t want to compromise the movement of the twisting ribbon so this was the perfect material. After a few tests, I was able to cut through the mat board while preventing as many burn marks as possible.
Concept Statement
The internet is one of our most helpful tools to date, however when we get caught up in it, it causes more harm than good. Something as small as our iPhones is one of the deepest, ongoing spaces and somehow, we can fit it into our pockets. I wanted to play with the layers and varying shades of paper to demonstrate how this space virtually goes on forever, yet it is such shallow things that we get out of it. The depth is often unmanageable, and I want my own experience with the addiction of the social media world to play a part in this narrative. In addition to that, I want the viewer to be taken aback by the overwhelming amount of information and visuals being thrown at them. This will mirror the countless distractions our phones give us on a daily basis, but how we are still mindlessly sucked in. My plan is to create a piece no larger than 9×9 inches and that resembles the shape of a cell phone. I want to play with various methods of making some layers pop out higher than others such as using foam as my supplementary material to create more depth within the design. My primary tool for execution will be the laser cutter or Cricut but the cardstock will be held together with glue and foam stickers to add dimension. My goal is to convey the tight grasp and irresistible influence that technology has on us within a dynamic multi-layered design.
Iterations
I sketched out different ideas of how I was going to construct my design along with writing down everything that came to mind regarding the internet and my personal experience with social media, the internet, and my phone. I then created a couple prototypes to help me visualize what layers needed to be what size, and decided on the final composition. This step was vital because I realized the way I had set up my layers in Illustrator was backwards. I played around with different shades of grey and different internal elements to the phone in my digital files and ultimately ended up with a front and backside to the phone.
Production
Using the laser cutter and cricut, I was able to cut out each element for my design. For most of the basic shapes, I used the cricut but for the smaller detailed elements I relied on the laser cutter because it is more precise. For the actually assembly of the piece, I used a combination of glue and foam stickers to add height and dimension where needed. I also added a turning mechanism using paper as an interactive component.
Final
I wanted to recreate the irresistible universe that we find ourselves trapped in for hours of each day and I think that the added depth in the analog version really brings this narrative to life compared to its digital counterpart. I am happy with the way it came out and glad I decided to make it a work that has two sides because when face down it looks intriguing to pick up just like in real life. I hope it comes across as somewhat overwhelming and eye opening to the amount of time we spend in this endless digital space.
View the final project at Layers and Deep Space: Final