2D to 3D Translation: Process

Research

I began my research by revisiting my shape from the Point, Line, Plane, assignment to find a shape for my 3D Translation.

Point, Line, Plane Shape

I decided on this cross shape to begin my process because it was simple but still contained many interesting components.

Negative shape I chose

Exercises

The first exercise we did was creating a perfect cube. I found a template online to follow, and I used glue to put it together.

Cube Template

The first exercise we did was creating an orthographic and an isometric drawing of the letter “F.” I realized how much simpler using these drawings can make the actual construction part.

Orthographic and Isometric Drawing

After I completed my drawings, I constructed the “F” with my Bristol. I used tape to hold the form together for efficiency instead of glue.

3D “F”

Iterations

I made my cross shape into a 3D form.

3D cross

 

View Full PDF of iterations at 3D Iterations

For our final exercise, I began by creating a few variations for my final shape. I wanted a shape that added a lot of dimension without becoming overwhelming and distracting. I ended up combing two of my variations to create my shape.

Production

I began by creating templates for my 3D shape. After I made a hand drawn template, I finalized it on Illustrator.

 

Final Template

 

I then constructed it, and after I was complete, I made some notes for measurements and parts to fix.

After making some of the minor adjustments, I decided to scale the whole shape up by 1.5” to make construction easier.

 

 

I used that template to construct my 3D shape.

Final Shape

Then with my test shape, I experimented with negative space to add more dimension and interest to my shape.

I liked the negative space concept, but I did not like the tunnel because it seemed too open. I ended up using windows instead of tunnels to incorporate negative space.

Template for negative space

In my shape, I added square pyramids inside of the windows. I had 2 2.5” pyramids and one 1.5” pyramid.

Pyramid Template
One Pyramid in shape
Over-Head view of pyramids

Final Production

In this project, I learned the importance of exploration. There is no real failure with exploration because it is simply trying new things that excite you. I also learned the importance of craft, which I want to improve in the future. Overall, this project got me thinking outside of the box and made me eager to design more.

Comparison

3D form
3D form with negative space

Both of my figures still contain the same cross plane. For my second figure, I decided to go with negative space as windows because I wanted to evoke a sense of surprise. The pyramids are a kind of hidden treasure in the form. There is an excitement that comes when one looks into the shape because the added dimensions are unexpected.

Overall, this project pushed me to develop my form building. Despite errors with craft, I was able to develop my skills an extremely beneficial way.

View final portfolio project at 2D to 3D Translation