Thursday, February 10, 2011

3D Max Modeling

2D Sketches

3D Model

This 3D Model was made in 3D Max by using the 2D Skectches as a guide and building it up using edible poly modify tools.

What is the relationship of art to nature???

Throughout history nature has acted as inspiration and subject matter for artists and designers.

The Golden Ratio

Perhaps the most important link between nature and art is the concept of The Golden Ratio.


The Golden Ratio is a number aproximately equal to 1.618 and is derived from forms found throughout nature. It relates to geometry, art, architecture and many other fields.
It began during the Renaissance in literature written about aesthetics and it is here that the concept was developed. Since this many artists and designers have used the golden ratio in aspects of their work as they believe it makes the most beautiful and visually pleasing shapes.

It appears in many buildings and works of art. Perhaps the best architectural example of this is The Parthenon in Rome.

Sunday, December 5, 2010

Vitruvius Roman Order

Vitruvius (Marcus Vitruvius Pollio), born around 84 B.C. and died after 27 A.D. Marcus Vitruvius Pollio was an architect, engineer and writer. He is most famous for his writings of the book De Architura otherwise known as the ten books of architecture.

De Architectura
First (edited) publication in 1486 and is divided into 10 books about;
·        Book I: City planning and Architecture in general
·        Book II: Building materials and constructions
·        Book III: Temple construction
·        Book IV: Temple proportions of columns
·        Book V: Public buildings (theatres and baths)
·        Book VI: Private and agricultural buildings
·        Book VII: Floors and stucco decorations
·        Book VIII: Water installations
·        Book IX: Astronomy
·        Book X: Civil and military engines

According to book 1, Chaer 3, “The Department of Architecture” of Vitruvius’s writings, all
architecture must exhibit certain qualities. These qualities are firmitas, utilitas and
venustas.
Firmitas: meaning strength and endurance which refers to the structural stability of the building and also the buildings longevity. This would be achieved by the building of solid foundations and the use of good materials.
Utilitas: meaning utility and usefulness. This is achieved by the spaces being situated correctly to ensure the functionality of the building and to efficiently facilitate the buildings purpose.
Venustas: meaning beauty and aesthetics. This is achieved by creating a pleasant appearance to the building and in the creation of proportionate spaces within that obey the laws of symmetry. 
The Panthen, Rome
Even though the Pantheon was built after Vitruvius’s death it is a good example of roman architecture that displays the three qualities discussed above.

Exterior view of the Panteon, Rome

Interior view of the Panteon, Rome

Drawings of the Panteon, Rome

Friday, November 19, 2010

Chosen Building for Honours Bachelors Degree Project

                                           1-2 Upper Hatch Street, Dublin 2
I have chosen 1-2 Upper Hatch Street as the building for my 4th year studio project.

It is located in Dublin City Center on Upper Hatch Street and is close to St. Stephens Green and Harcourt Street.

It is currently being used as an office building with different businesses renting floors of the building.

It was refurbished in 2005 and is around 3800m sq
and consists of 9 levels including a basement and several outdoor terraces.

I am proposing to redesign the building with the intention of changing the buildings use to a high spec art facility that will include both public and private areas.

I plan to accommodate live in / work units for professional artists, educational space for MA Fine Arts students, exhibition space, a cafe and much more.