During this course, my artistic practice has evolved significantly through each assignment, and I have gained more confidence in my abilities as an artist. At the beginning of the course, I was apprehensive about starting new projects and feared the “blank page.” Now, I embrace the preliminary stages of creation by experimenting with thumbnail sketches, developing mind maps, and conducting thorough research before embarking on a final piece. The course has taught me to think outside the box and push myself creatively, which has led to substantial growth. For example, I have begun testing ideas more rigorously, making bold artistic decisions, and I am no longer afraid to take risks. This transformation is evident in my approach during assignment four, where I decided to learn a new and complex software package called Blender. By incorporating 3D modelling, I took my idea of sculpture further than I had originally envisioned, bringing a new dimension to my work.
Reflecting on each unit, I can see how every stage has contributed to my development as an artist. The exercises in the first unit encouraged me to challenge myself and embrace the learning process without fear of making mistakes. These initial exercises were a foundation for building my confidence, allowing me to develop a more playful approach to creating illustrations. During the first assignment, I learned that being playful can unlock innovative ideas and creativity. This experience also highlighted the importance of taking risks to continually improve my work.
Throughout part two, I faced one of my biggest challenges—speaking about my work and creating a presentation to share online. As someone who is naturally shy and has struggled with anxiety, this was an extremely challenging task for me. However, I pushed through my fear and delivered a successful presentation that was well-received by my family, friends, and tutor. The positive feedback I received, combined with gaining new subscribers to my blog, encouraged me to continue sharing my thoughts and experiences publicly. This part of the course also introduced me to new methods of working, such as the word association game, the cutting-up exercise, and collage-making. These activities proved to be immensely helpful in sparking creativity and shifting my perspective on how to approach my work. I found myself increasingly open to experimentation and more willing to take creative risks.
Part three introduced many new challenges, including animation, paper folding, and working at a large scale. The workload was intense, but I enjoyed experimenting with new techniques and pushing my creative boundaries. I discovered a love for animation and have a desire to explore it further. Painting on a large scale was especially daunting, as it was something I had not attempted before. Yet, I was pleasantly surprised by the outcome of my landscape scene, which I have since framed and displayed in my living room. It serves as a constant reminder of what can be achieved when pushing myself and venturing beyond one’s comfort zone.
In part four, I continued to step out of my comfort zone by integrating handmade sculptures with painted backgrounds, which were digitally enhanced using Photoshop. When submitting my work for tutor feedback, I was apprehensive, worried that I had pushed myself too far or veered down the wrong path. However, my tutor’s positive feedback reassured me and encouraged me to keep exploring this new direction. This experience taught me to trust my instincts more and reminded me that it is important to embrace uncertainty as part of the creative process.
Part five was a continuation of the journey I started in part four. I focused on refining my skills and further developing my artistic style, while also trusting my instincts more deeply. Although I still had moments of doubt, the consistent positive feedback from my tutor helped me gain more self-assurance in my work. By receiving such encouraging responses, I realised I can produce strong and original pieces when I trust the process and lean into my creativity.
By the end of the course, I have learned to continue testing ideas, pushing my creativity, and having faith in my abilities as an artist. I am grateful for the experience and the skills I have acquired along the way. The course has not only expanded my technical skills but also instilled in me a newfound confidence to approach future projects with curiosity and enthusiasm. I am excited to see where these skills take me in my artistic career and look forward to continuing this journey of growth and exploration.
Below is a selection of my work that I believe has been the most successful during the course.
This assignment is an open brief but challenges me to produce a body of work that explores a starting point of my thoughts through different stages of development, materials and processes.
Keywords from the brief:
Think unconventionally
An open-theme example is improving my drawings
Consider sizes, shapes, forms and materials
Have an idea, test it, develop it unusually and take it somewhere further.
A minimum of three finished pieces
Document what you do as you go along
This project should take 90hours
Write a final reflective statement
Previously, in assignment four, I created 3D clay sculptures and hand-painted backdrops around the theme of imagination, focussing my work on the story of Alice in Wonderland. These artworks included 3D clay sculptures of Alice and the white rabbit, which I photoshopped into hand-painted backdrops. These can be seen here:
For this new project, I intend to elaborate on the artwork done in assignment four, with a focus on the sequel to Alice in Wonderland, Through the Looking Glass which was first published in 1865. As a result, new challenges will arise, hopefully leading to fresh and different artworks. I’m excited to explore the numerous characters and places depicted in Through the Looking Glass and incorporate them creatively into my illustrations. By delving into this story, I hope to boost my creativity and create a collection of visually appealing and thought-provoking artwork.
Project Proposal: Exploring “Through the Looking Glass”
Brief
Building on my previous work inspired by Alice in Wonderland, this new project will focus on the sequel, Through the Looking Glass. My aim is to develop and refine my creative process by exploring different characters, settings, and themes from the book. The emphasis will be on thinking unconventionally and pushing the boundaries of my artistic practice.
Project Goals
Expand on previous themes: Using my prior experience with clay sculptures and painted backdrops, but take the ideas further by exploring new materials, forms, and scales.
Create at least three final pieces: These should reflect the development of my ideas and demonstrate my experimentation with either different materials and techniques or both.
Document the process: Keep a detailed record of my work at each stage, from initial sketches to finished pieces.
Reflect on my practice: Write a final reflective statement that evaluates my process, challenges, and outcomes.
Initial Ideas and Research
First, I downloaded the book ‘Through the Looking Glass’, which I learnt was free to read on Google Play (Google.com, 2024). Due to my dyslexia, I found it helpful to listen to an audio version of the book too (Reads, 2024). While reading the book, I took notes on specific paragraphs that I felt would create interesting pictures.
Fig. 1 Annotations (2024)
Once completed, I reduced the selection to thirteen possible illustrations.
Fig.2 Possible ideas (2024)
I then produced a list of these thirteen ideas, explaining the story for each one, and asked friends and family which three they would most like to see in a book.
Fig.3 Asking friends (2024)
It was interesting as ideas numbered two and eight were the favourites and I selected number one as I was keen to make that particular illustration.
Brainstorming& Thumbnails:
Next, I began creating a series of sketches and notes on the characters, scenes, and themes from Through the Looking Glass that resonate with me and focused on how I can reinterpret these elements in unexpected ways.
Brainstorming slideshow
Brainstorming Alice meeting Humpty Dumpty
Brainstorming Alice meeting Humpty Dumpty
Brainstorming Alice stopping for a rest to find a gold crown appear on her head
ThumbnailSlideshow
Alice Composition idea
Alice sat in a mossy field with flowers
Composition ideas for Alice meeting Humpty Dumpty
Working out the composition and perspective for Alice and Humpty Dumpty meeting each other
Humpty Dumpty Character Design
Research
Graham Rawle
Studying the methods of other illustrators and artists is essential for discovering artistic movements and strategies that can inspire my work. To this end, I explored Graham Rawle’s book The Wizard of Oz: An Interpretation, a creative reimagining of the classic story. I began by watching a short animated film by Pete Mellor and Graham Rawle that showcased Rawle’s unique visual style.
You can watch the video below.
After viewing it, I purchased a used copy of his book on eBay to delve deeper into his interpretations. As I spent time examining his artwork, it became clear that Rawle painstakingly assembled numerous elements to craft a surreal interpretation of the story. By merging tactile handmade materials, he has created a work that is both imaginative and captivating. Many of the characters, like Toto, were intricately handcrafted before being combined and edited in Photoshop.
During myresearch, I discovered an interview Rawle did with an editor from The International Wizard of Oz Club. It was fascinating to learn that Rawle had been drawn to the narrative for many years before embarking on his reinterpretation and that he uncovered backstories for each character. This undoubtedly deepened his passion for the project, much like my exploration of Alice in Wonderland.
I was excited to see parallels between his work and my previous creation of 3D sculptures integrated into painted backgrounds for my own interpretation of Alice in Wonderland. This has strengthened my confidence in my creative process and fueled my enthusiasm to continue exploring unconventional mediums.
History of Through the Looking Glass
After studying Graham Rawle’s work and techniques, I decided to delve into the origins and inspiration behind Through the Looking-Glass. As I mentioned in my previous assignment, Lewis Carroll was not just an author but also a brilliant mathematician. He had a fascination with reflection, symmetry, and binary logic, which, for many years, scholars have been analysing alongside his mathematical workings. This, along with his relationship with Alice Liddell, likely inspired the creation of Through the Looking Glass.
During my research, I was excited to learn Alice Liddel’s grandparent’s home was located in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire (not far from myself), where Carroll visited her for a short time. This home still features a large ornate mirror, which is believed to be the mirror that inspired Through the Looking Glass. This is shown below.
Fig. 4 Alice looking in the mirror (2024)
Next, I studied some of the original illustrations by John Tenniel for the book. His artwork is incredibly detailed, with intricate line work that vividly brings Carroll’s fantastyl world to life. Tenniel captures the whimsy and imagination of the story, conveying emotion through the characters facial expressions and body language. This is evident, for instance, when Alice encounters the bewildered Queen and helps her by fixing her messy hair and retying her shawl. This illustration can be seen in the Pinterest folder below.
After looking at his work, I’m hoping to be able to create something that is both original and distinctive, like Gramham Rawles and John Tenniels artwork combined.
Visuals
Alice meets Humpty Dumpty
This illustraton it is based on the following paragraph from the book.
‘And how exactly like an egg he is!’ she said aloud, standing with her hands ready to catch him, for she was every moment expecting him to fall.‘(Google.com, 2024)
After producing thumbnails and experimenting with various compositions, I started to build a 3D model of Humpty Dumpty, I went to my local recycling centre to check if they had anything I could use for this project. I was excited to discover a Styrofoam egg and an old vintage doll. Both I thought would be good for this project.
Fig. 5 egg (2024)
Fig. 6 Vintage Doll (2024)
After I bought them, I started sculpting the egg with floral wire for the arms and legs, and I then added plasticine to finish sculpting the area surrounding the egg. When I was done, I added finishing details like a tissue to his pocket and a cravat I created out of some leftover cloth. A slide show of my work in progress is shown below.
Slide show of working process of making Humpty Dumpty
Next, I began drawing and painting the background on an A3 sketchbook. Mixed media was used for this such as watercolour, crayon and pastel some applied with brushes or sponges.
Slideshow of working process of backdrop painting
Pencil sketch layout
Starting the painting
Painting ready for enhancement in Photoshop
It was now time to use Photoshop to improve the painting and add the characters. This last picture features the vintage doll dressed as Alice alongside phrases from the book “Through the Looking Glass” collaged on top.
Fig. 7 Alice meeting Humpty Dumpty (2024)
The result was a unique and fresh retelling of the classic story. I was pleased with how the many elements blended to create an appealing and eye-catching image.
Alice becomes queen
This next illustration is based on the following extract from the book.
The Eighth Square at last!” she cried as she bounded across, and threw herself down to rest on a lawn as soft as moss, with little flower-beds dotted about it here and there. “Oh, how glad I am to get here! And what is this on my head?” she exclaimed in a tone of dismay, as she put her hands up to something very heavy, and fitted tight all round her head.
“But how can it have got there without my knowing it?” she said to herself, as she lifted it off, and set it on her lap to make out what it could possibly be.
It was a golden crown.(Google.com, 2024)
After creating the thumbnail sketches I began considering how to make Alice. I thought of the exercise I had previously completed which was about working small and started trying to make Alice using Fimo clay.
Fig.8 Fimo Experimenting (2024)
However, I found this difficult and didnt have the right modeling tools for working at such a small scale. Instead I decided to make Alice out of air drying clay. Below is a slide show of my working process.
When the sculpture was finished and had dried, I coloured it with acrylic paint and sanded it with a nail file. Finally, I built a plasticine crown and incorporated it into the figure.
Fig. 9 Painted Alice (2024)
Next, I started drawing a background of a beautiful grassy field in my A3 sketchbook using acrylic paint, pastels and crayons.
Fig. 10 Field painting (2024)
After this had dried, I finished the image by adding the clay sculpture in Photoshop and making some final editing. Whilst editing, I wondered if encorporating the vintage doll somehow would be effective.
Fig. 11 Alice doll in field (2024)
However, I didn’t think it worked in harmony with the hand created elements so went back to my original idea. Below is the finished image.
Fig. 12 Alice sculpture in field (2024)
Finally, I created a book mockup for the illustraton.
Fig.13 Mockup (2024)
The final resulted in a unique mixed media artwork that I think has brought the story of Alice and the crown to life in a creative way. The combination of traditional and digital art techniques have added depth and dimension to the overall piece. The use of different mediums allowed me to experiment with textures and colours.
Alice falling down the rabbit hole.
The final image was going to be based on Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum. However, there was a change of plan that happed by accident. For research purposes and to hopefully give me more inspiration I researched a book called ‘The story of Alice’ by Robert Douglass and found the only book available was based in a libary twenty minutes away.
Fig. 14 The Story of Alice (2024)
Reseving the book, I drove to the libary with my younger son to collect it. When entering a member of staff was walking around with a VR headset on. Finding this amusing and unusal for the setting I laughed and said what are you doing. He mentioned he was setting up games for a class he was holding for children during the summer holidays. Thinking of my son I asked is there other oppotunitys available at the libary and I was shocked to disover the libary has the following available to use.
360° immersive film
3D design, print, scanning and prototyping
Coding & micro-computers
Virtual & Augmented reality
Advanced digital design & animation
Full Adobe Creative Suite
A design studio for digital design, 3D modelling & animation
Oculus Quest virtual reality headsets
3D scanners & printers
Podcast recording equipment
360° cameras & editing software
Micro-computers & programmable robots
Project & Digital Skill support from our Lab Tech teamwhole Adobe suite, camera equipment and 3D laser cutters.
Hearing this I was excited and mentioned my project and showed him some of my work. I had an idea of animating my illustration of Alice falling down the rabbit hole but didn’t know how. He then showed me this could be achieved by scanning and photographing my model and then animating it in a program called Blender.
Therefore, I went back to the libary with my model of Alice and used their 360° cameras & editing software.
Fig. 15 Photograhing Alice (2024)
Next, I used these photos of my sculpture to create a 3d model in Blender and began learning how to create an armature for the model.
Fig.16 Rigging Alice (2024)
It did feel like I had bitten off more then I could chew as the programe is completely new to me and very complicated! However, I am determined to complete my idea as I think it will be not only taking me out of my comfort zone, but learning new skills, developing my artistic ability and creating something exciting and original. However, I know it is going to take me many hours to learn.
Perservering with Blender, I managed after many attempts to attach the completed rig of armature to the model of Alice.
Fig. 17 Armature Alice (2024)
However, when trying to pose the model in different position it was not working correctly as parts of the model were stuck which can be seen in the images below.
Fig. 18 ArmatureProblems (2024)
This meant I had to go back through every bone in the armature in edit mode and highlight the mesh that needed to be attached to the bone. This was a very tidious and difficult process.
Fig.19 Fixing mesh (2024)
Yet, after many hours I managed to attach all the bones ready to be posed and ready for animation.
The next stage, is to add back the original textures to the model. Which are ready to be synced to the model.
Fig. 20 Alice Fusion (2024)
Once this is achieved I will create an animation of Alice falling in Blender, which I have done a short test and am confident in creating. Below is a short clip of me experimenting with the animation side.
Finally, combine this with the background image below which will be rolling behined. I anticapte this to be completed in After Effects. Unfortunetly, this is a slow process and a giant learning curve for myself so it hasn’t been completed. However, it is my intention to have it completed for assessment.
Fig. 21 Rabbit hole (2024)
Reflective Statement
This project has been both challenging and a rewarding experience, blending traditional methods with advanced digital techniques to re-tell “Alice in Wonderland” and “Through the Looking Glass.” From the beginning, I was eager to explore the possibilities offered by the advanced technology available at the library, particularly in animating my illustration of Alice falling down the rabbit hole. However, the journey took me far beyond digital exploration, as I also experimented with sculpting and mixed media illustrations.
3D Modeling and Animation
Learning Blender, a program entirely new to me, was perhaps the most daunting aspect of the journey. It is evident it has been a steep learning curve as I struggled with rigging and weight painting my model of Alice. There were moments of frustration, especially when the model didn’t respond as expected during the posing phase. However, each challenge presented an opportunity to deepen my understanding of 3D modeling and animation. The satisfaction of finally seeing the armature function correctly was a significant milestone, reinforcing my determination to continue.
Experimenting with the animation itself, although time-consuming, provided a glimpse into the possibilities ahead. The short test clip I created gave me confidence that I could eventually bring my vision to life. Also, the prospect of combining the animated model with the background in After Effects is exciting. This experience has tested my patience but most importantly, expanding my artistic abilities and I am excited to see what else I can create.
Humpty Dumpty and Alice Sculptures
Aside from my work in Blender, I undertook a hands-on project to create a 3D model of Humpty Dumpty. The process of sculpting Humpty Dumpty, using floral wire and plasticine, was both challenging and fun. I hope my attention to detail, from the tissue in his pocket to the cravat made from leftover cloth, added a personal touch that brought the character to life.
Next, I experimented with mixed media in my A3 sketchbook to create colourful backdrops. The use of watercolors, crayons, and pastels allowed me to explore different textures and effects, which I later enhanced in Photoshop. This combination of traditional and digital media allowed me to refine and perfect the background while maintaining the handmade feel of the original work.
Creating Alice was another important moment. Initially, I struggled with sculpting in Fimo clay due to the small scale, but rather than giving up, I adapted by switching to air-drying clay where I was able to mold and paint Alice more effectively.
Integrating these elements into the final image required careful thought. While the vintage doll initially seemed like an interesting addition, I ultimately realised that it didn’t harmonise with the hand-crafted elements. Returning to my original idea, I was able to create an image that felt more unified and true to my artistic vision. The creation of a book mockup allowed me to see how these illustrations might function in a published format.
In reflection, this project has pushed me to think creatively, adapt to challenges, and blend various artistic techniques to achieve a final result that I am proud of. The experience has been invaluable in helping me grow as an artist, and I look forward to applying these skills to future projects.
Reflection on verbal tutor feedback
“Completing my project based on Through the Looking Glass and receiving feedback from my tutor was both a nerve-wracking and a rewarding experience. I often feel apprehensive about how my work will be received and whether I’ve done enough to meet expectations. However, I was delighted to hear that my tutor was blown away by my efforts, particularly in handmade crafting, the stunning illustrations I created, and my integration of technology. She also recognised my initiative in learning Blender, expressing eagerness to see the animation I am currently working on. My tutor has also encouraged me to start marketing myself, and playfully adviced me to display my sculptures at home rather than sell them. This feedback gave me a renewed sense of confidence in my abilities. Hearing her say, ‘ If you don’t have confidence now you never will, well done Gemma,’ and that she was impressed and blown away by my work was incredibly affirming, and it’s a reminder to trust in my creative instincts moving forward.”
Continiation of Blender animation after tutor feedback.
Knowing my animation hadn’t been finished due to the complexity of the software was frustrating, especially given the effort and time I had invested in it. Throughout the process, I learned new skills in 3D modeling, animation, and video editing, and I was eager to see a completed result I could be proud of.
Determined to finish, I continued working on the animation. After many late nights and setbacks, I was finally able to complete it and share it with others.
To bring the character of Alice to life, I first adjusted the model’s mesh in Blender to ensure smoother movements. I then created keyframes in Pose mode, meticulously positioning each part of the model in various poses across frames. This involved detailed adjustments to ensure that Alice’s movements appeared natural and expressive.
Next, I tackled the challenge of installing a camera in Blender to record the animation. This part of the process took several attempts, as setting up a dynamic camera angle that captured Alice’s descent effectively required careful placement and experimentation.
After exporting the animation, I moved on to After Effects, a new software for me, to create a scrolling backdrop. Learning After Effects was initially daunting, but with time I managed to create a background that complemented the movement of the character. Finally, I added music to enhance and bring the animation fully to life.
While the very short animation is not perfect, I believe it captures my creativity, dedication, and willingness to take on new challenges to improve my skills in both illustration and animation. I hope you enjoy watching.
Douglas-Fairhurst, R. (2015). The story of Alice : Lewis Carroll and the secret history of Wonderland. Cambridge, Massachusetts: The Belknap Press Of Harvard University Press.
Frank Joslyn Baum (2008). The Wizard of Oz (Collecter’s Edition). Atlantic.
Up to now you have been reflecting on and collating what you have produced in this unit. Now take the 10 images you uploaded in the last exercise and print them off – you could print off several versions at different sizes to give you lots of visual options. For this exercise you are going to mix up and combine selected elements to create new images. If you are comfortable with software you may decide to complete this exercise digitally.
Lay out your printed images somewhere so that you can look at them together. This is similar to the ‘Cut Ups’ exercise in Part Two but this time all of the imagery is of your own making. Arrange your composite drawings to create connections between them. You could choose to group elements from different drawings together to see what happens, or elements from a few of your photographs. Or you could mix up part of a drawing with part of a photograph and part of a painting. You might like a figure in one image and a landscape in another – put them together to see what new story or narrative they create. Be as experimental as you can. When you have made 10 new composite images upload them to your blog and reflect on the process in writing on your learning log.
Visual Skills 2: Visual Exploration p129
Keywords from the brief
Take the 10 images you uploaded in the last exercise and print them off
Mix up and combine selected elements to create new images.
You may decide to complete this exercise digitally.
Arrange your composite drawings to create connections between them.
Be as experimental as you can.
Reflect on the process in writing on your learning log.
Here is a link to my last exercise that contains the ten selected images.
To see all the images I had chosen up front, I first made an online mood board of them. I then started experimenting with different compositions and digitally segmenting certain areas of each image. Here are the finished drawings made from different portions of the earlier pictures.
One
For the first image, I combined a character I drew for the exercise Slow and a background I painted for Assignment 4. It excited me, as I could see possibilities for a new story. To show my idea, I then wrote a paragraph for the story and made a mockup.
Fig. 1 schoolboy down the rabbit hole (2024)
Fig. 2 schoolboy down the rabbit holemockup (2024)
Two
For the next illustration, I experimented with a different composition. I did this by combining the background from assignment four with the two clay sculptures. It was interesting to focus on the fleeing rabbit instead of the earlier detailed drawing.
Fig. 3 Fleeting Rabbit (2024)
Three
For this illustration, I combined the drawing of a house from the Slow exercise, where I created a comic, with the background and white rabbit drawing from Assignment 4.
Fig. 4 Rabbit going home (2024)
Four
This drawing incorporates elements from assignment 4’s background with the painting I completed for an exercise in part three.
Fig. 5 Bats (2024)
Five
This drawing incorporates elements from assignment 4’s background with a character I drew for the exercise: Slow. I then added the text ontop of the painted shape.
Fig. 6 Take time to make your soul happy (2024)
Six
This drawing incorporates elements from part two and part four. The alice clay sculpture can be faintly seen in the water.
Fig. 7 Wizard saving Alice (2024)
Seven
This drawing incorporates elements from part two and and assignment four.
Fig. 8 Wizard capturing the rabbit (2024)
Eight
This drawing incorporates elements from part three and four.
Fig. 9 Reds Secret (2024)
Nine
This image incoperates ellements from each part of the unit. It reminded me of some of the dreams I have had in the past.
Fig. 10 Am I dreaming (2024)
Ten
This illustration incoperates elements from part two and four.
Fig. 11 Stop (2024)
Reflection
The process of combining different elements from various past images has allowed me to explore new perspectives and create unique visual narratives. By digitally segmenting certain areas, I was able to play with composition and create unexpected connections between the original artworks. Overall, this exercise has pushed me to think outside the box and experiment with my creativity in a new way. The final images show a blend of colours, textures, and shapes that were not originally present in the individual images. From all of the new illustrations my favourites are number one, seven and eight as I think they could be used in childrens books.
List of illustrations
Fig. 1 Fowler, G (2024) schoolboy down the rabbit hole [mixed media] In possession of the author: Forest of Dean, UK.
Fig. 2 Fowler, G (2024) schoolboy down the rabbit hole mockup [digital artwork] In possession of the author: Forest of Dean, UK.
Fig. 3 Fowler, G (2024) Fleeting Rabbit [mixed media] In possession of the author: Forest of Dean, UK.
Fig. 4 Fowler, G (2024) Rabbit going home [mixed media] In possession of the author: Forest of Dean, UK.
Fig. 5 Fowler, G (2024) Bats [mixed media] In possession of the author: Forest of Dean, UK.
Fig. 6 Fowler, G (2024) Take time to make your soul happy [mixed media] In possession of the author: Forest of Dean, UK.
Fig. 7 Fowler, G (2024) Wizard saving Alice [mixed media] In possession of the author: Forest of Dean, UK.
Fig. 8 Fowler, G (2024) Wizard capturing the rabbit [Digital illustration and clay sculptute] In possession of the author: Forest of Dean, UK.
Fig. 9 Fowler, G (2024) Reds Secret [mixed media] In possession of the author: Forest of Dean, UK.
Fig. 10 Fowler, G (2024) Am I dreaming [collage] In possession of the author: Forest of Dean, UK.
Fig. 11 Fowler, G (2024) Stop [collage] In possession of the author: Forest of Dean, UK.
To think about my final assignment I looked back through all of my artwork created for this unit and identified the works that I think are particually successful.
To do this I reviewed my sketchbooks, as well as the finished pieces and read back over my reflective statements and notes in my learning log for each part of the course and made notes.
Part One – What was involved
In Part One of the course I considered my workplace, working process, concepts and ideas key to visual thinking like flow, and play and how they can be used to develop thinking and making processes.
For one of the tasks, I illustrated my ideal studio, which I liked not just picturing but also creating humour by including my son and pets in the illustration.
For the assignment, I created an A2 playful illustration by making purposeful markings of varying sizes and shapes from one corner of the paper to another with various mediums. Once finished, I chose sections representing distinct feelings and created additional images.
What I learnt during Part One
To not be afraid of making mistakes
That random mark-making can be an effective method for conquering the blank page and generating fresh ideas.
Doodling on a page allowed me to select little portions and create fresh illustrations with emotional significance that I could envision being utilised for various items.
Part Two – What was involved
In part two I developed these concepts and ideas to examine several approaches to generate ideas and visual thinking through controlled, randomised and accidental working methodologies. These included:
An exercise called Composing Pictures. This involved collaging existing works into something new. This included a successful, political collage.
Creating collages from daily tabloids
Creating a word poem by the use of a word processing application and then creating illustrations for each word and eventually combining them all into one coherent image.
Assignment 2 I created a video presentation of my work during the unit.
Playing the word association game by creating mind maps to help generate new ideas. This led to a successful illustration of a Wizard where I tested my technical skills.
Choosing a word and making a list of all the different manifestations that a word can take. Then I made each manifestation into illustrations.
Multi-dimensional thinking strategies.
What I learnt during Part Two
I have explored many concepts and attempted various methods to develop new ideas during this section of the course. I have learned a great deal from this. I am inspired to make illustrations that evoke emotions or convey a message somehow because of them.
It has also taught me not to be afraid to do new things, even if I don’t end up with the greatest piece of art, since it will lead to other opportunities and further my artistic development.
During part two, I created a comfort zone illustration by writing down topics that make me uncomfortable and comfortable and categorising them into different coloured circles. I concluded that I should repeat this exercise to evaluate if my skills and weaknesses had changed. Below is the original.
First, I edited the original, deleting all unrelated topics, and then created a new one focusing solely on my illustration concerns and skills to see if anything changed.
I was pleasantly delighted that several topics have now moved into my comfort zone rather than the danger zone, proving to me that I have grown as an artist over this course and gained more confidence than I thought possible.
Part three
In part three I examined various technical, stylistic and creative processes and explored and experimented with the ideas of duration, scale and movement through creative making. These included:
Paper folding where I learnt skills in Origami and tested my perseverance.
Created a comic based on my own experiences with the struggles of Insomnia.
I created rapid portraits of facial expressions using plasticine and found my love of sculpture again.
Continuous line sketches
Assignment three I created an animation about a ballet dancer struggling with the torments of bullies.
What I learnt during Part Three
To make time to play and have fun experimenting
I have found my love of working with clay again.
I have strengthened my hand and eye coordination by practising continuous line drawing.
Part four
In Part Four I selected one of three possible themes to develop my own visual research, experimentation and creative process culminating in a body of original artwork. Working with the theme ‘ Imagination’ This assignment brought my observational skills, innovative strategies and making methods together to fully develop my ideas and concepts into a coherent body of artwork.
The assignment was based on my interpretation of some of the scenes from Alice in Wonderland
What I learnt during Part Four
The importance of asking for feedback on my work
I enjoy creating work from my imagination
This assignment has proved that I want to become a children’s book illustrator because of how much I have enjoyed it.
I have developed a unique artistic style.
After I selected 10 pieces of work I have made in this unit I think are particularly successful. These are shown below including a link to an animation I made.
When I finished Assignment 4, I was concerned about what my tutor would think of my work. For as long as I can remember, I’ve felt like my work isn’t good enough. However, after receiving feedback from my tutor, I understood that my concerns were unfounded because the tutor provided great feedback. This event led me to be more confident in my abilities. I’m more motivated to keep working hard on this course. It gave me a huge boost of confidence and assured me that I was on the right course with my studies.
The concept of imagination that I chose for the assignment is so broad that it encouraged me to think outside the box by employing mind maps and primary research. For the first time, this led my work to reflects my personal style.
Reflecting on my visual approach to the task, I would proceed in the same manner that I would with the research. Visiting Oxford helped me engage with the story on a different level. Throughout the journey, I imagined myself as Alice in a variety of settings, including visiting the river she would have taken boat rides on, seeing the fields she would have played in, and the inspiration around Oxford that led Lewis Carroll, all of which helped me channel those ideas into my artwork.
The final images’ strengths are that they demonstrate perspective, movement, attention to detail, and expression against a complex background. The illustrations’ flaws could be improved by working on more refined facial expressions with the sculptures I produced, as well as paying closer attention to detail with the sculptures. This might be accomplished by adding whiskers to the rabbit and more detail to the fur. This could be accomplished by researching human or animal facial anatomy to create more realistic depictions.
The work’s scale was suitable for assignment four, but going forward, I’ll need to make sure I set up the right size at the start of the project to prevent it from unintentionally becoming distorted in any way. For example, if I want my work to be used as book illustrations or merchandise.
For this assignment I had to prepare a presentation of my work that I believe is engaging and varied in addition to reviewing the work completed during part 2 of Visual Exploration and thinking critically about how I work.
Key words from the brief:
Look back through all of the work you have produced in this part of the course, especially the final outcomes of each of the seven exercises.
Make a Powerpoint, Keynote or other slideshow presentation that selects and presents what you think is an interesting and varied collection of work.
The slideshow could be seen as a selective sketchbook or portfolio that underpins some of the thought processes and decisions you have made throughout this part of the course.
You could add notes from your learning log or a voiceover to explain or discuss your thinking in more detail.
illustrate your commentary by showing examples of your work and also how you work
These should draw on your visual responses to the exercises so far, but can also make reference to your previous work.
Use the slideshow to visually present your creative making process, which may include showing your working space
Five to seven minutes long
For the presentation I looked at various ways I could present such as filming myself, creating a PowerPoint presentation and using other presentation software. Finally, I settled on using Adobe Express as I felt this gave me a way to present my work clearly and be able to talk about my work using a voice over. Below is my presentation.
Presentation
Reflection on the assignment
What have you learnt about your practice by reflecting on creative processes?
Upon completion of the work I have created in part two, I have come to the realisation that I am motivated by illustrations that trigger feelings or somehow communicate a message.
However, I’ve also recognised that I found some of the work difficult, like beginning the collage project. As said in the presentation I have not enjoyed collage in the past however, after I gave it some context, I started to like it.
What I enjoyed about this part of the course is it has made me experiment with new ways of working and each one has helped me to generate new and exciting ideas.
How did the experience of making a video go for you – did it communicate you and your practice successfully?
Creating a presentation using Adobe Express was a technical challenge for me as I have never used the program before. It was difficult to know how long to talk about each slide without talking too much. To overcome this I typed out what I wanted to say for each piece of work and made sure each slide didn’t go over thirty seconds. Once I got to grips with it I found it enjoyable and exciting to see a show about my work come together.
Animating some of the work and text made the slideshow more interesting visually and I hope it captures the viewers attention. Being able to add my voice to the presentation allowed me to express myself and explain my working process. Hopefully this helped me to connect with my audience at a deeper level.
As all the work had been completed when creating the presentation, I decided not to do a live video as I didn’t think it was necessary. However, in the future I would like to create a similar video but add in a couple of short clips of me drawing or painting. I think this would add an interactive element to my presentation allowing viewers to witness my creative process in action.
Reflect on your outcomes but more so on your creative process – what worked for you, and how might you adapt these approaches for future projects?
Exercise 3 was enjoyable it is something I have not done before and got me really thinking about what I could draw whilst having a constraint. Only having the word ‘making’ to use as inspiration was quite challenging, yet I was pleasantly surprised at the final outcome.
Exercise 4 was a fun activity where I had to generate a series of mind-maps to generate associations based on a single concept. It was surprising how many ideas I was able to come up with and proved to be a useful tool for the future, for example when having a mental block.
It was enjoyable to experiment with digital painting and to gain new skills, but I am disappointed that I still have a lot to learn in this area. Due to my lack of technical understanding in this field, it will take some time for me to make a digital drawing that I am proud of. However, I will continue to practise this whenever possible.
In the last month I have recently purchased an ipad and bought the drawing program Procreate which I am excited to learn to use as I think it will be beneficial for my illustration practice.
Exercise 5
For this exercise I had to play the word association game using Word on the computer. I have never done this before and it was quite interesting to see what list of words I came up with. I also enjoyed making some of the illustrations such as the sea scene.
Exercise 7 is a debatable one for me. On one hand I have never liked doing collage work or looking at other artist collage work. Yet, by doing this exercise it has pushed me outside of my comfort zone and I have been able to express different thoughts and messages in my artwork. I was able to do this by carefully thinking about the composition of mixing textures, colours, and illustrations. It allowed me to open up to new ways of thinking and spark creative connections.
Which pieces of work do you feel have been most successful and why?
Exercise 4
Exercise 4 led to a successful outcome with the creation of a fantasy illustration of a wizard. It has shown me how effective mind-mapping can be in sparking creativity and generating ideas. Being able to overcome mental blocks when they arrive and finally being able to turn it into a positive and imaginative result I think is a success.
Overall all these exercises have pushed my creative boundaries and I can see they are valuable for my personal and artistic growth.
Have the exercises helped you to think about things in new ways or try out new ways of working? What have they been and how has your viewpoint changed?
Yes these exercises have helped me think about new ways of working and have created successful outcomes by doing them. For example, the mind mapping exercise, the word association game exercise, the cutting up exercise and the collage exercise have all been able to enhance my creative problem-solving skills, overcome mental blocks, and discover new approaches to my work that I can take forward in my practice.
What area(s) would you like to develop further?
The reason I am on this degree is not only my love of illustration but that my aim is to illustrate children’s books and book covers in the future. With this in mind there have been a couple of fantasy illustrations that I have drawn in the unit and I realised I became totally absorbed when drawing them. I would quite like to have another go at this perhaps for a fairy tale children’s book and spend time experimenting with ideas and creating an array of character designs.
As said above in exercise five, I was able to express myself, be imaginative and create art that had meaning. This is something I would like to do more of but perhaps not in the form of collage.
Visual Skills 2 