The Challenge

A fun project, the challenge was to make lots of different found object compositions using a total of eleven found objects from around the house, exploring positive/negative space, scale, balance, three dimensional aspects, repetition, tension, dynamics, symmetry/asymmetry and division of space.

The rule of fifths applied in creating the composition below. With just the right mix of negative space, balance, repetition of shapes and asymmetry, I used the 3D card to create a downward dynamic, increasing the focus on the bear. Textual objects were kept to a minimum and it looks like the bear is on an inflatable object in a swimming pool on holidays. The plain blue background worked with the light source well and some shadow adds interest.

Below Left
One of my first compositions, the aim was to create a playful harmony with a pleasant, asymmetrical balance, using rainbow coloured items to add interest. Textual objects are kept to a minimum and the composition has important edges situated in the rule of fifths. Some dynamic is provided by the flowing necklace and the stacking and repetition of circular shapes add to the harmonic vibe. The background offered a calming colour, with interestingly glossed lines that played in the light, adding depth to a fairly plain arrangment.

Below Right
I was thinking about clocks and dynamics when I created the second arrangement. I used asymmetrical but repetitive flow with the objects to create dynamic clock hands with movement. The colours blended well and the black background allowed far more focus on the compositional shape. Scale is medium sized and the harmonic circular shapes add to the balanced and calm ‘scene’.

I really wanted to focus on the tetris pen and duck clip in my next composition. In creating an unusual geometrical shape with the pen, the eye is immediately drawn to it as it is centred in the composition and has a smaller scale with a little space around it. While asymmetrical in balance, the repetition of rectangles add stabilisation in the design and the composition fits into the rule of fifths. The 3D nature of the pen indicates the heights of the objects around it, while they in turn indicate the proportions and size of the pen.

Further exploration of 3D elements to add dramatics resulted in this composition, where I imagined the bear laying down in a mini city. The ‘buildings’ formed by the rectangular objects show depth and proportion, while the overturned comb set adds a hint of difference with its unusual shape. Objects intersect in a rule of fifths, while space around the bear fits into a rule of thirds grid. The background has nicely lit coated spots which add interest and the repetition of the two tetris pen parts emphasise the city/building theme.

Below Left
This composition explores a 3D look, dramatic angles and asymmetry to explore proportion and scale in the small space. The composition follows the rule of thirds and fifths perfectly, with focal elements and angles at intersections within these grids. A large scale Nag Champa box combined with the higher/closer 3D card gives a dynamic of downward direction in the centre of the composition. The viewer follows the ring down and may feel relieved by the negative space containing the smaller elements.

Below Right
In continuing the dramatic nature and thinking about tension, I used similar elements, turning them upside down and employing the rule of sevenths. The addition of the pointy pen and the downward direction with less negative space (and therefore less relief for the viewer) creates tension. The orange comb is not upside down, conflicting with the rest of the elements. The card is opened further to add pressure to the top of the composition, while the white background keeps the tension from screaming too loudly.

In this composition, I wanted to create balance with straight vertical and horizontal lines. Although it is asymmetrical, it gives the impression of symmetry with the careful placement of varying sized rectangles and objects that balance each other. The central rectangular focal point fits with a rule of thirds and the lined background strengthens the horizontal forms of the objects. The colours and textural elements in this composition are easygoing and fit together to create a sense of travel and paperwork.

During this project, lots of photos were taken and contact sheets were made.

• Photography