Tech in Art: Accordion Book Revised

Here is my revised accordion book. This book focuses on the postmodern principle of the gaze. In this book I was exploring the different power relationships that are established through the gaze. I made my book interactive by layering Mylar paper on top of the pages of the book. I invite the viewer to interact with the pages by shifting their feeling of power depending on if they are in the perspective of the one doing the gazing or the one being gazed at. On the back two pages of the book, there is a mirror with an eye overlayed on one page, and the reverse on the other page. This is to emphasize the difference in power between being the "gazee" or the "gazer".

Principles and Elements Panorama Abstract Art Book

Postmodern Principle: The Gaze

The term gaze is frequently used in contemporary discourses to recognize that when talking about the act of looking it is important to consider who is doing the looking and who is being looked at (Olin, 1996). Gazing, associated with issues of knowledge and pleasure is also a form of power—controlling perceptions of what is “real” and “natural.”

Materials: Graphite pencils

Frosted Mylar

Scissors

Needle and thread

Before Starting: Consider the postmodern theme of the gaze. This postmodern theme asks us to consider who is doing the looking and who is being looked at. Gazing can be associated with issues of knowledge, pleasure, or power. Think about how the postmodern theme of the gaze could be applied to your own life, or a time where you have witnessed the gaze. How can you use the pages of this accordion book to visually tell a narrative about this?

Step 1: Choose a single shape. This will bring unity to the piece. Unity is created because the same basic shape is repeated throughout the composition; unity is often created by repetition of art elements.

Step 2: Make 5 or more of your chosen shape. Make these with variations of size or form. Vary the proportions of the sides of the shapes. Make some of the variations as dramatic as possible. Variety and interest are attained by making variety of the basic shape.

Step 3: Discuss how the arrangement of shapes can create a feeling of movement and rhythm in the composition. Try to create a sense of movement along the long horizontal page of the accordion book.

Step 4: Use frosted Mylar to create an additional layer. Draw on the Mylar and place it over another drawing done in the accordion book.

Step 5: Add text. This will enhance the narrative of your accordion book.

Step 6: Using a needle and thread, enhance the composition by creating areas of texture and through repetition of points, lines, or shapes.

Step 7: Consider the 3D form of the accordion book. How does it exist in space? Complete the back pages of the accordion book by incorporating elements and principles used to complete the front pages.

Consider the entire composition. Does it have a symmetrical or an asymmetrical balance? If you wish, add shapes or lines to complete the composition.