Title: @symbol
My project consisted of me sketching out letterform ideas, which then lead me to the @ symbol. I liked the open-ended thought to the character. I wanted people to think “@ what?” and hopefully come up with their own ideas. Once I determined my character, I continued sketching out my designs. I wanted to move away from the traditional circle-based A and incorporate a traditional A. My idea was to marry the old with the new. For many people, they have not know a world without the @, given its need on the Internet. To me, the @ symbolizes endless possibilities.
The medium used in the project consists of my sketches moving to the computer where I redrew my character in Illustrator. Once I refined the shape in the digital format, I printed the design in tiles to accommodate the 24” size I desired for the final piece. I laid out my design on matte board then cut it on the proper and mirror sides. With two character shapes made of matte board, I moved to adding paper cups between the two pieces to provide the depth of the form I was looking for. I proceeded to use paper tape on the object to give it structure and something to hold the glue. Once assembled, I started gluing used wine corks to the structure. I chose wine corks because each can have its own story much like the @ symbol itself. I layered the structure with corks until I achieved the 3D effect I was looking for. I enjoyed creating and producing my design. I hope that all visitors to the NOVA – Loudoun Library will enjoy it for the open-ended idea intended, as well as its grand gesture. Please send comments to [email protected] |