Flat+Pack+Relief

In this project, you will build a nonrepresentational relief sculpture from cardboard. The relief will be build using a “flat pack” type of structure. This structure is used to create strength and be easily assembled and disassembled. It is created by criss-crossing planes of solid material, with small slots on each piece where the planes cross. Having the material on edge and supported by many junctions and planes creates strength far beyond what can be expected with a similar material put together in other ways.



Using this technique, you will create a dynamic, nonrepresentational relief sculpture. Your goal is to create a structure that implies a complex, visually interesting surface that moves from low to high. The structure can be rigid and geometric, asymmetrical and random, or move from spare to dense.

When designing your structure, it helps to have a few goals or motifs in mind. Some possibilities/questions you may try to answer using this project:

What happens if the structure contradicts the implied surface? If it mirrors the implied surface?

Can varying the density of the structural elements help create areas of interest and focal points? Does this enhance the readability of the implied surface or impair it?

What are some types of organization that can be used to create the structure? x/y grid, radial, wave, etc.

You will be given 3 sheets of 40”x48” cardboard. You may supplement with your own found material. Use the material wisely!

What are some things that can inspire the dynamic surface of your relief? Topography, landscape, impasto paint, natural surfaces/textures. Find images of three inspirational surfaces and post them to your wiki page.

Key Terms: Density Implied plane Implied form Low relief High relief

Some cardboard building techniques. media type="youtube" key="Xk6CJTfq8VA" width="560" height="315"

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Examples of works made using the "flat pack" technique