Exam Unit: 'Scrapheap'

During the A-level (year 13) edexel exam unit, I chose to look at 'Scrapheap' which linked to the assigned topic "Inside Outside and In between". In the past I was usually diverted towards human topics such as mentality and emotions conveyed in a portrait, although this time I felt coming out of my comfort zone completely. This meant working with shapes and colours that would allow me to experiment with abstract themes rather than the realistic impression of images. As it turned out, I first went to a Scrapyard where I pictured both close-ups of mechanical car parts and engines whist also picturing the landscapes (as shown below). The area was extremely cluttered and almost all car parts were decomposing due to the mild weather and partial rain experienced throughout the years. I personally felt that this gave the area more 'texture' and 'dimension' with its creases, scrunches, bends and crumpled metallic surfaces that create an overall varied layout.

When I placed the images together I realized that juxtaposing different mechanical parts together from random pictures would also create a 'clutter' feel and 'raw' image. This would also mean I would have to study the shapes in order to create an abstract painting that would 'flow' together whilst also looking 'natural'. In order to however, make the painting more raw and edgy, I created harsh marks throughout the piece using scratch marks and varnish to contrast both the matte surfaces and shiny areas, thus creating an impression of cluster, dirt and metal .The hues included Dark Brown, Titanium White, Burnt Umber, Electric Blue, Oakre, Cadmium Red, and Crimson - Oil Paints.

In effect, I was able to rotate my paintings completely during the layout of the exhibition as well as place them closely together to create the 'Scrapheap' impression.

Medium: Oil Paints, White Conte, Colour Conte.

Technique: Brush, Dry Colours, Scratcmarks.

Final Layout

 

 

Art Exhibition May 2013