During the Summer Quarter 2009 the Sculpture Minor on the Savannah Campus was able to offer three elective courses at the Gulfstream Center for Design. This collaboration between the School of Fine Arts and the School of Design provided an exceptional education and life-changing experience for students from both the Atlanta and Savannah campus.
The Gulfstream Center for Design exudes quality and excellence in every aspect of its operation. It is a state of the art facility where students can reach their artistict potential by exploring both traditional sculptural practices and applying the latest tools for digital fabrication to their unique creative visions in a safe environment supported by a “can-do” student centered support staff.
The courses offered through this collaboration enhances student learning on the Savannah campus by providing elective courses that compliment their major area of study. Sculpture Majors from Atlanta get an opportunity to experience the Savannah Campus while completing their major course of study
By promoting a cooperative team spirit the School of Fine arts and the School of Design demonstrate how we can create innovative learning opportunities that will prepare SCAD students for their future careers.
SCPT 275: Direct Metal SculptureThe class that started it all. In the first course taught at the Gulfstream Center for Design students explored the history and application of direct metal sculpture techniques. Working in a state of the art facility students explored basic welding and metal forming techniques.
During the course of the quarter students created sculptures using linear, planar and volumetric forms. Emphasis was placed on the proper and safe use of equipment associated with creating welded sculpture
Many students used digital fabrication techniques to design and create their welded sculptures. The Diverse student body from Industrial Design, Architecture and Sculpture created dynamic interactions rooted in collaboration on both individual and group projects.
SCPT 212: Introduction to ForgingThis summer marked the first time that a class in metal forging was offered on the Savannah campus. Taught by Aaron Heisler, (Professor of Furniture) students were introduced to the role that forging metal has played in the practice of sculpture throughout time.
Students in this class learned the basic skills needed to successfully manipulate metal through the forging process. Professor Heisler’s expertise in this discipline provided students with an understanding and application of safe tool use
Using the city of Savannah as a learning laboratory Professor Heisler introduced them to both the Historical and contemporary contexts of forging.
A diverse group of students from Architecture, Industrial Design and Metals and Jewelry came together for this course. The class was a grand success.
SCPT 250/450:Digital Applications in Sculpture/Computer Modeling for Sculpture Projects
For the Second Summer, students explored the relationship between digital tools and sculptural practice in this studio course. Using 2-D vector based programs, image processing software and 3-D modeling programs, students learned how to use the computer as a design tool for sculpture and to prepare files for various CNC outputs at the Gulfstream Center for Design.
During the course of the quarter students prepared files for the CNC mill, Fused Deposition Modeler and the Laser Cutter.
The course was composed of a diverse student body that included students from Metals and Jewelry, Industrial Design, Painting, Fashion and Sculpture Majors from the SCAD Atlanta campus.
Over the course of the quarter students were able to explore and apply digital fabrication as a means and not an end in sculpture.
