Flying object

To fly or not to fly, that's the questions!

Flying has always fascinated humans. Even in Greek mythology, there is the story of Icarus, a man who wanted to fly. Many people have tried to turn their dreams into reality.

Leonardo da Vinci put many ideas on paper, but he did not succeed in actually flying. The Wright brothers were the first to fly a motor airplane in 1903 (a distance of 37 meters).

Other artists have also been inspired by the dream of flying.

Artist Joost Conijn created his own plane and flew to South Afrika

Panamarenko, the artist name of Henri Van Herwegen, was a Belgian sculptor. He is considered one of the most important Belgian sculptors of the second half of the 20th century. He created many assemblages* that are related to flying.

The brothers Wright's first motorised aircraft in 1903

*An assemblage is a type of artwork made by putting together different objects into one piece. The artist uses found materials, such as metal, wood, parts of machines, or everyday objects, and combines them to create a sculpture.

You will be making an assemblage of a flying object in pairs. Remember that the objects do not always have to truly leave the ground; it is enough to suggest the idea of flying. Also, it will be an imaginary flying object, so try to be as orginial as possible and leave out any references to existing flying objects.

Learning goals:

I can design an original flying object by using my imagination and avoiding references to existing airplanes, helicopters, or other real flying machines.
I can create an assemblage by combining different materials and objects into one artwork.
I can suggest the idea of flying through shape, movement, balance, or materials, even if the object cannot actually fly.
I can experiment with materials and construction techniques to see how different objects work together visually and structurally.
I can explain my idea and choices by describing how my assemblage represents an imaginary flying object and why it suggests flight.
I can work effectively as part of a team by sharing ideas, listening to others, and cooperating during the design and creation of the assemblage.

Materials you are allowed to use:

rattan cane,
bamboo,
wooden skewers,
textiles,
kite paper,
cardboard,
string,
glue

Tools you will need:

scissors, side cutters, hacksaw

What will you hand in?

Output brainstorm in your dummy.
Clear development process (at least 3 sketches in your dummy).
Thoughtful designs, interesting forms, and a sense of flight (suggested) in sketches and final sketch.
The object is solidly constructed with the suggested materials and neatly finished.
Teamwork was efficient and effective.
A photo that suggests the objects is flying.

Inquisitive: I am curious and I like to learn new things. I actively take part in lessons and activities
Risk-taking: I am willen to try new and different things. I am not afraid to make mistakes and I know I can learn from them.
Reflective: I am learning to understand what my strengths and points of development are. I am trying to grow and improve.
Knowledgable: I am learning new things and I can follow the lessons.
Open-minded: I am open to the world around me and interested in what is happening right now. I like to explore other cultures and learn about different people. I find respect important.

Lesson 1 - the suggestion of flying

First let's brainstorm!
Write down as many characteristics of things that can fly. Please write this in both your dummies. Can't come up with more than three? Look at flying objects online for inspiration.
Next, think about: what kinds of shapes move in the wind, are lifted by the wind, or cut through the air? Add these to your dummies too.

Secondly, use whatever you have brainstormed above to create 3 different sketches. Make sure to have 3 very different designs. Don't forget that your object is drawn in scale!!

Thirdly, reflect on your 3 sketches. Answer the following questions in your dummies:

which sketch best shows the suggestion of flying?
which part of which sketch do you think is most interesting and why?
what bit would you design differently next time?
what bits could you combine?
Describe what your final design will look like.

Fourthly: sketch your final design

Lesson 2-4: creating your flying object

Page updated

Google Sites

Report abuse