Artwork: MIAD Architecture
Dulce Hogar
48cm x 61cm
Graphite on Paper
April 2018
Graphite on Paper
April 2018
Exhibition Text
Dulce Hogar was inspired by Cream City Brick and Mexican architecture. The piece was created with the intention of being used as a shelter home located in southern Milwaukee. Overall, the piece was designed to be in a place that is accessible for those living in that area while the building was designed to look safe and welcoming to the public.
Process
Brainstorming
When thinking about what kind of building I wanted to design I thought about how I wanted it to impact my surroundings. I began to think about the place in where I often volunteer and came up with an idea that would benefit the people in my community. Because I have volunteered in a place that deals with violence and abuse I decided to create a building that provides shelter for all of the people in need in the southern area of Milwaukee.
When thinking about what kind of building I wanted to design I thought about how I wanted it to impact my surroundings. I began to think about the place in where I often volunteer and came up with an idea that would benefit the people in my community. Because I have volunteered in a place that deals with violence and abuse I decided to create a building that provides shelter for all of the people in need in the southern area of Milwaukee.
Sketches
The first sketch that I created is a building with four levels. Three of those levels have arches to create a more welcoming feel. Meanwhile, one of the levels did not have arches. I made the piece like this so that the design didn't look to repetitive. What I plan to do for the first level is to have arches that show the inside in where you can see doors in each arch. Along each leg from the arches I plan to have big pots with plants. I would like to make it so that they have a modern look to it. The nest level will also have arches, but this time there will be a railing that wraps around the level. This time the arches will be a bit more slim and the place will look larger. The following level will be a bit more simple. This part will not be made out of wood and will have large windows. The windows will fill lots of the space while providing great lighting inside. Lastly, the top level will have arches that look very similar to the ones in the bottom.
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The second sketch that was created was inspired by modern architecture. This building has a cube like structure in the center while another tries to wrap around that form. The building was designed to have a simple look inside but a more interesting look outside. The outside includes arches, windows, and doors. The arches are located on top in where I plan to have the area serve as a place in where one can go and look outside. Below that there are windows and doors to finish up the look of the piece. This area will serve as a place in where families will be places as well as the cube inside the building.
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The third sketch has a resemblance to a house. This design is meant to look this way to attract people as well as make them feel comfortable. The house has a small flight of stairs that leads to a door in where you can see arches. The side of the house has large windows that will serve as something that brings in much light. The entire building will also be elevated by a layer of bricks. IN order to make the place look a bit more welcoming I decided to make arches that are as big as the house next to it. Inside you will also be able to view part of a greenhouse. Overall having the place look like a house with a greenhouse will make the piece look safer and comfortable.
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Creating my Design
As I began to create my design I had to follow certain rules. First, I created a 1 inch border around the entire paper. I then taped my paper to a board so that it wouldn't move around as I drew and also for safe storage. After the paper was taped down I drew vanishing points on the board so that I could draw the building larger. A line then connected them together. In the middle of the paper two more points were drawn and connected to define the corner of the building. Those points were then drawn towards their corresponding vanishing points. Next, the lines |
were cut by a vertical line to determine the places in where the building ended and horizontal lines were added to split the levels in the building. After this I began to add all of the elements that were on my sketch. I began by drawing a simple outline of the entire building. Arches were made by drawing x's in the rectangular areas, then drawing a vertical line in the center of the x created. This process was followed through out the entire piece to create arches on the bottom of the building as well as the top. I then filled out the areas in where windows were locate as well as the doors. The second area that was fixed was the area in where the big windows were located. Because I wanted to have wood in that area I decided to draw horizontal lines. This was done this way so that it would look as if many wooden planks were added. Below that level the mural was left blank while the porch area had a railing added as well as plants to create a warmer feeling.
Sketches from Experimentation
Research
Before I began to add texture to my piece I searched up videos that would help me draw different surfaces. One of the videos that I saw showed the process of creating texture of brick, metal, and wood. I followed the steps that were given and created the texture of brick and wood. In the other hand the surfaces that were smoother were just shaded in. |
- This video helped with drawing brick texture step by step
- This second video showed step by step how to draw brick, wood, and metal textures
- This video helped me with determining where to create thicker lines as well as how to draw windows |
Finishing Up the Design
To complete the piece that I had created I decided to add the textures accordingly. I began by outlining the entire piece to make it darker and then adding thicker lines on windows and areas in the bottom area of the building. I then decided to start with the bricks. Because Cream City Brick was my inspiration I decided to shade in the bricks and the cement (that can be seen between every layer of bricks) with a similar shade. Knowing that they have a similar color I made sure to incorporate that in my piece and then I decided to make them a bit darker to separate them from the background. The next texture that I had created was the area that had wood. Once again, I made sure to follow the steps that were given, and followed the same process for each wooden plank. Lastly, the surfaces that were smoother were darkened with different shades.
To complete the piece that I had created I decided to add the textures accordingly. I began by outlining the entire piece to make it darker and then adding thicker lines on windows and areas in the bottom area of the building. I then decided to start with the bricks. Because Cream City Brick was my inspiration I decided to shade in the bricks and the cement (that can be seen between every layer of bricks) with a similar shade. Knowing that they have a similar color I made sure to incorporate that in my piece and then I decided to make them a bit darker to separate them from the background. The next texture that I had created was the area that had wood. Once again, I made sure to follow the steps that were given, and followed the same process for each wooden plank. Lastly, the surfaces that were smoother were darkened with different shades.
Artistic Inspiration
Cream City Brick
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One of my inspirations was Cream City Brick. The name came from the material used, which was a cream colored brick. It was thought to be worthless making it the least expensive material during the 1830's. As they began to use the brick they realized that it was very durable, causing them to use this in much of the architecture in Milwaukee. I plan to incorporate the use of this material in my piece because of it's characteristics. The bricks are durable and light in color. This will help appeal to people as well as draw them in. Another reason for this is that the bricks restore their color when gently washing them. If the environment surrounding the building is not the best, at least the building will be kept in good condition. The bricks will always remain clean as well as in tact. Because I am planning on having
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the building in Milwaukee, I have decided to use this material. It will not only appeal to people, but it will also connect with the city's history and culture.
Architecture in Mexico
My second inspiration is architecture in Mexico, specifically arches. When looking at architecture in Mexico, something that is often seen is arches. It ranges in location from big buildings to smaller ones and even the houses that are seen around. Because arches are seen so much in my culture, I have decided to incorporate this element in my design. Another reason for this choice is the symbolism behind the arches. When I think about the buildings that have arches I tend to think about how welcoming they are. The lack of a door emphasizes the fact that one is able to come in. Since I am very fond of this idea and representation, I plan to incorporate this in certain areas of my design. I plan on having arches that are wide in the bottom of
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the building as well as arches on the windows of the top level in the building.
Reflection
At the end of this project I thought that I was successful and I was happy with the overall look of the building. Towards the beginning of my piece I wanted something that was complicated and beautiful. Although this did not happen, I think the simplification of my piece reflects my artistic inspiration but also catches the attention of my targets. I believe that I am successful because I was able to incorporate the material and style of my inspirations. The material from Cream City Brick can be seen in the bottom and top level. The bottom floor has bricks that are a bit ore separate. The cement can be seen in between each layer. Just like in a variety of Cream City Brick architecture, this creates a comfortable look. In the other hand the top floor was made so that the bricks were more compact but still following the architecture from Cream City Brick. When it comes to comparing my piece to my culture, I believe that I was very successful. One of the things that is often seen in Mexican architecture is arches, which were present in my building. The building that I created reminded me of the many arches that I have seen in Mexico. Not only that but I also included plants to make the area feel more welcoming and to emphasize the resemblance of my design to the architecture in Mexico.
Meaning
Because I volunteer in a place that deals with abuse, I have decided to create a design that appeals to all of the people in need of shelter. In those hours that I have spent volunteering I saw that there was a lot of people who were dealing with issues in where it was best that they did not live in the house they were in. Many times I heard them say that they did not feel safe anywhere else, other times they were afraid of leaving, and sometimes they just didn't want to go somewhere that was really far from their current house. Another thing that I had noticed was the location. I volunteered in the south side of Milwaukee and most of the clients were from that area as well, and so I decided to design a building that would fit in that location.
I designed a building that is appealing to the many clients that I have seen as well as welcoming. I decided to use Cream City Brick because of it's color and the uniqueness of the material. The color would be less intimidating to the people but it would still be a durable material to use. This was put in the very top and bottom of the building to create a building that looked sturdy and impossible to collapse. By doing this I made the design look safer and less intimidating (color). In the middle area of my building I have decided to add an area in where the material used is wood to bring a modern look to the piece. Below that the building shows a railing as well as a mural. One side of the building has a mural that shows hands together as well as two different hands with flowers. I specifically drew hands and aspects of nature combined because they help the building look appealing while having great symbolism behind it. The hands coming together symbolize a community that is united while nature represents calmness and new life. I believe that this helps tell the audience that they can always start anew and with the help of their community. In the right side of the building I have created an area in where one can come out and enjoy the view from outside. This area has a few doors as well as lights and plant. By bringing plants to the piece I have created a warmer feeling. Lastly, I was inspired by Mexican architecture. To be specific I was inspired by the arches that you see in buildings. Arches represent an open door, which is welcoming and symbolize a transition whether it may be literal or figurative.
I designed a building that is appealing to the many clients that I have seen as well as welcoming. I decided to use Cream City Brick because of it's color and the uniqueness of the material. The color would be less intimidating to the people but it would still be a durable material to use. This was put in the very top and bottom of the building to create a building that looked sturdy and impossible to collapse. By doing this I made the design look safer and less intimidating (color). In the middle area of my building I have decided to add an area in where the material used is wood to bring a modern look to the piece. Below that the building shows a railing as well as a mural. One side of the building has a mural that shows hands together as well as two different hands with flowers. I specifically drew hands and aspects of nature combined because they help the building look appealing while having great symbolism behind it. The hands coming together symbolize a community that is united while nature represents calmness and new life. I believe that this helps tell the audience that they can always start anew and with the help of their community. In the right side of the building I have created an area in where one can come out and enjoy the view from outside. This area has a few doors as well as lights and plant. By bringing plants to the piece I have created a warmer feeling. Lastly, I was inspired by Mexican architecture. To be specific I was inspired by the arches that you see in buildings. Arches represent an open door, which is welcoming and symbolize a transition whether it may be literal or figurative.
Connecting to ACT
1. Clearly explain how you are able to identify the cause-effect relationships between your inspiration and its effect upon your artwork.
My inspiration influenced the material that was used as well as the actual design, which can be seen in my piece.
2. What is the overall approach the author has regarding the topic of your inspiration?
The overall approach of the authors of my research is to show how the building that are seen in different communities represents culture and how that has been affecting modern designs in architecture.
3. What kind of generalizations and conclusions have you discovered about people, ideas, cultures, etc. while you researched your inspiration?
After researching my inspirations I have realized that there is much meaning behind architecture. I used to think that buildings were made with no intent other than to serve as shelter, but now I am more open minded and I know realize that there are many reasons for choosing to do certain things.
4. What was the central idea or theme around your inspirational research?
The central ideas around my inspirations were just to create buildings that were durable and efficient. In reality their culture influenced them in creating these designs but they had not realized this earlier since they were jut trying to create places in where people could find shelter.
5. What kind of inferences did you make while reading your research?
While reading my research I can say that one can bring out meaning in the things that they create. One does not have to brake their head and think about themes since they will come out naturally in their work.
My inspiration influenced the material that was used as well as the actual design, which can be seen in my piece.
2. What is the overall approach the author has regarding the topic of your inspiration?
The overall approach of the authors of my research is to show how the building that are seen in different communities represents culture and how that has been affecting modern designs in architecture.
3. What kind of generalizations and conclusions have you discovered about people, ideas, cultures, etc. while you researched your inspiration?
After researching my inspirations I have realized that there is much meaning behind architecture. I used to think that buildings were made with no intent other than to serve as shelter, but now I am more open minded and I know realize that there are many reasons for choosing to do certain things.
4. What was the central idea or theme around your inspirational research?
The central ideas around my inspirations were just to create buildings that were durable and efficient. In reality their culture influenced them in creating these designs but they had not realized this earlier since they were jut trying to create places in where people could find shelter.
5. What kind of inferences did you make while reading your research?
While reading my research I can say that one can bring out meaning in the things that they create. One does not have to brake their head and think about themes since they will come out naturally in their work.
MIAD-Critique
During my constructive critique I was able to get feedback on the things that were done nicely and those that were done poorly. It all began with an observation and background information. I began by presenting myself as well as my work. I talked about the process of making it as well as the meaning and my artistic inspiration. I first received feedback from my peers. I was glad to hear that they were able to decipher the reason for my design. They all knew that my building was made for my community and they thought that this was clearly presented without the need for background information. Next, both a MIAD professor and student critiqued my work. I was told that the work that I had made was great. They said that one is able to see that I truly care for my community and it was reflected in my design. Although my work was complimented, there were a few things that could have been changed. First, I had not added a light source. The piece that I made did not have shadows or areas that showed how light affects the way in which the piece looked. Another area that needed improvement was the area in where the mural stops. A thing that I had forgotten to add was where one can see the thickness of the wall. Finally, I was asked that next time I try to make my drawing look more realistic.
Overall, I enjoyed being critiqued in my work. I agreed with all the comments that were given to me, and I was able to see more clearly where I had made mistakes. This not only helps me improve my piece but it allows me to gain more experience. By participating in this critique I gain a bit more tips on how to present my work and it allows me participate in a critique, which is something that I have only practiced twice.
Overall, I enjoyed being critiqued in my work. I agreed with all the comments that were given to me, and I was able to see more clearly where I had made mistakes. This not only helps me improve my piece but it allows me to gain more experience. By participating in this critique I gain a bit more tips on how to present my work and it allows me participate in a critique, which is something that I have only practiced twice.
References
- Paulsen, Eric. “Cream City Brick Built Milwaukee's Name.” OnMilwaukee.com, 2004, onmilwaukee.com/visitors/articles/creamcitybrick.html.
- “Cream City: Behind the Brick That Built Milwaukee.” Milwaukee Magazine, Milwaukee Magazine, 16 Jan. 2018, www.milwaukeemag.com/cream-city-brick-behind-the-brick-that-built-milwaukee/.
- “Cream City Brick.” VISIT Milwaukee, VISIT Milwaukee, 2018, www.visitmilwaukee.org/articles/about-mke/cream-city/.
- Carr, Joe P, and Karen Witynski Carr. “Hacienda Architecture.” Hacienda Style : HACIENDA DESIGN Mexican Hacienda Design, Hacienda Architecture, Mexican Kitchens, Joe P. Carr Design, 2008, haciendastyle.com/department.asp?id=32.
- “048 Learn How to Draw Brick Texture.” YouTube, YouTube, 29 Dec. 2017, www.youtube.com/watch?v=i_8IjdGpn0M&t=2s.
- “How To DRAW Realistic TEXTURES Using PENCILS! - Wood, Brick & Metal.” YouTube, YouTube, 4 Oct. 2017, www.youtube.com/watch?v=S3DCx0TzNRw.
- Jusridevries. “Pencil Rendering and Shading Window - PART 1.” YouTube, YouTube, 2 Feb. 2010, www.youtube.com/watch?v=dOqZyrIRkOE&t=160s.