Using feedback and further research on materials, I have changed up my project a bit from the project proposal. Originally I planned to use EL wire to create lit up, hanging, cube sculptures inspired by various abstract artists. Some of the feedback I got on the project proposal was to use clear boxes at the core of the sculpture to reflect the light and to arrange the sculptures in a specific way, for example a solar system. So I combined all of this and now I plan to create lit up, hanging, spherical sculptures inspired by the planets (and abstract art). For this maquette, I created a miniature scale model and a proof-of-concept “thin slice” of the project.
Above is a small model of the piece using some paper, clear wire, tape, and a plastic box. I plan to arrange the ‘planets’ hanging from the ceiling, in a circular configuration representative of the solar system. Depending on timing and material availability, I plan to make about 4 planets, each 16 inches in diameter. Additionally I would like to create constellations of stars hanging as well that you can see from certain angles. For this project I have created a shopping list of all parts/supplies I will need to complete the project that I will buy via amazon or the grocery store:
I also did a small proof-of-concept with the materials I’ve received so far to get an idea of what it might look like. I verified that using clear tape would work to attach the lights to the ball and that the clear wire will hold up the ball okay. I think the ball also reflects the light well. I will probably also use some sort of tissue paper to diffuse the light more on the outside.
I also created a weekly schedule for the rest of the term to ensure best results for the project
Week 4: Buy materials and create maquettes
Week 5: Planets 1 & 2, stars, address issues and look for improvements
Week 6: Planets 3 & 4, stars, begin mapping out installation of planets and constellations for documentation
Week 7: continue installation and begin documentation, Present Project
Week 8: Final documentation
I like how you are using light to create a solar system. One question I have is if you are going to make any of the ring planets and how you would approach those? I also would be concerned with power draw, since you might be using a lot of EL wire/LED’s, which can draw a lot of power quickly.
A potential idea that may make the exhibit more interactive is to have some sort of a sensor (ultrasonic maybe?) that senses when a viewer approaches a certain section and then lights up as they approach.
I really like the idea of having stars that form different constellations when viewed from different angles.
Are you using any software to first virtually visualize where the stars will position, and then use the coordinates in the software to create it in the physical form?
Hi Olivia, the proof of concept looks really cool! I was wondering how you would decide placing the different shapes next to each other and how large of a space would you like to occupy?