Frame vs. Field
The aim of the task is to improve my understanding of the use and purpose of notations, while combining the techniques and tools of Rhino and the Adobe suites. In the readings, I learnt about the difference and significance of autographic and allographic practices, as well as the concept of homogeneous space and perspectival projection. In this project, I attempted to depict movement, context, narrative and the passage of time through a notated diagram and two perspective views.
Isometric Plan
Process
First, I built the base of the quad using the flat building elements provided in the first workshop. I made one section of the grid initially, then copied and mirrored it to make twelve parts. I used all the tools for 3D modelling that were taught in the workshop, including cap, loft, sweep, and extrude.
Next, I deleted, shifted, and moved units and blocks to build the scene. I also drew the basic notations up in Rhino, as well as the perspective outlines above the diagram. The way I placed the different blocks accentuates the tension and atmosphere of the scene. For example, parts of the building were broken in areas where the atmosphere is stressful.
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Before exporting to Adobe Illustratior, I set my view to isometric and created a ‘Make2D’ version of my model. I exported the flat two-dimensional image of my quad to Adobe Illustrator to edit and clean up.
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After exporting to Illustrator, I adjusted the line-weights, perspective washes, and notations according to the keys provided on the side. I ensured that the time, direction, and atmosphere lines can be easily distinguished from one another. After the first pin-up studio, I added more notations to emphasise movements and emotions.
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Blank Isometric Plan
Notated Isometric Plan
The quad is made by creating one section of the quad first, then mirroring to create the rest. Some platforms are raised and the blocks on the columns are shifted around to better suit the dramatic context. The Southern-east grid is partially taken apart to show that it is in construction, like the broken vault and floor blocks.
Atmosphere notations are added around every character within the scene, differing in sizes to represent the amount of energy or impact they radiate. Time is marked by movement according to the the actions taken by the characters in chronological order. The direction notation simply shows Marco Polo’s navigation of the map.
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The rendered viewport is exported as a PNG file to be used as the base shades.
The linework is exported separately to act as guidelines for the perspectives. I made sure to include bounding boxes to better fit the characters on the page.
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Characters, objects, background images and textures are added to construct depth and context.
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The saturation is switched to zero, while the contrast, brightness and exposure are tweaked to better fit the atmosphere. FInally, they are inserted into the isometric plan, thus completing the final project.