Space and Time Walk

Visuals

This is the final destination on my map.
This is the digital version of my Space and Time Walk map.
This is the physical version of my Space and Time Walk map.

Project Statement

This project explores the idea of slow-looking and sensory observation through the creation of a map. When choosing the location my map would lead to, nature was a factor I heavily took into consideration. Nature is something that can ignite our visual, tactile, auditory, and olfactory senses and thus, I thought a tree or colorful bush could be a really interesting spot for my final destination. On my way to the RPAC one day, I walked through what I call the “forest sidewalk” (a set of trees by the Architecture building) and knew it was perfect. In order to visually represent the journey to this area from Hayes Hall, I decided to make my map in the shape of what it looks like with several of the trees within it representing the different stops along the way. When choosing my eight stops, I picked places that were easily recognizable and had an auditory factor within them. When depicting them on my map, I heavily focused on texture by drawing their respective trees with leaves that showed what they were made out of it.

Process

View detailed project process at Space and Time Walk: Process

Reflection

This project was one of my favorites of the first semester. Initially, I loved the exploration aspect behind it. Prior to starting freshmen year, I visited our campus more times than I can remember with my parents who are both alumni. Yet, when trying to find my final destination I found so many new spots and grew a stronger appreciation for those I had already seen. Conceptually, I also thought this project was very interesting. Typically, maps only appeal to our sense of sight so trying to think of a way to use all five senses instead of explicitly saying the directions was a challenge. In the end, however, I was really proud of the work I produced. The drawing aspect behind it pushed me as an artist and allowed me to understand the importance of patience and detail work when it comes to constructing projects on a larger scale. Additionally, I was introduced to new tools and techniques that helped me better my craft such as a light table and smudge guard.