Independent Practice Portfolio (Final)

Evaluation: Over this semester I have been able to work independently to produce a series of experiments that act as a focus for my FMP. When I first faced this independent brief I found myself struggling to make a start because I was too focused on how it would end, but after a meeting with Luke I was left with a greater understanding as to what it was I was working towards and that I would get there in my own time. I needed to start with simple experiments in an area of interest which would then able me to move forward, it was this idea of ‘simple’ that stuck with me. I then decided to go back a step and produce an in depth Action Research evaluation which allowed me to look back over my practice and to select particular areas of interest that I wanted to explore further.

Still with this idea of ‘simple’ in mind I began by taking my last piece of work, which happened to be the Dogme 95’ Five Obstructions film, and stripped the film down to its most simple sequence and it was this initial experiment that became the platform for my exploration. Although it was very basic it allowed me to generate ideas by picking out what it was about the sequence that I found most interesting.

Throughout this semester I have worked to produce quick experiments and have realised all my areas of interest by sticking to the basic ideas of simplicity and line.

I have continuously evaluated my work to be sure that I am not going off course or repeating myself so as to make the most of the time I have at this explorative stage.

After a meeting with Luke it became clear that I had looked at all areas of interest to experiment and I had plenty form and content but a lack of function so I went away and began to then think about an end product, what I wanted to produce for my FMP and how that would reflect me and my work at the end of third year.

By taking something as basic as a line to experiment with I have been able to physically and psychologically manipulate the simplicity of a line, and have been able to apply function to the form and content. In doing so I have learned the importance of function and how it is the key to the communication of any concept.

‘Design is the manipulation of form and content.’ - Paul Rand Through my experimentation I have gained a clearer understanding of my skills and where my strengths are as well as highlighting to me my areas of weakness, which is also positive as I can now practice and improve those areas in my spare time to be sure that when I graduate I have a variety of skills. I am now confident that when it comes to my FMP I will be able to identify the right output for my designs and be sure that I am working to my strengths to produce a well rounded project.