Statement

Arbitrary Matrix

 

Iterative design is an approach that I've found myself implementing in my practice, whether I was aware of it or not. It’s a process that can involve very particular, incremental refinements, repeated testing, and numerous revisions in order to get a streamlined result. From utilizing these techniques, one can easily make new discoveries along the way, like creating successful pieces that are the result of some unintentional “happy accidents”.  

 

I’m often very indecisive when it comes to designing, so instead, I wanted to explore the idea of forcing myself to use specific imagery to create unique, yet successful compositions.

 

Arbitrary Matrix is a material exploration that aims to exercise the process of iteration through a series of haphazard experiments. These experiments consisted of playing around with different pigments or inks and mixing them with alcohol or water to see what type of unexpected, organic results I’d get. These tests were also done on different papers and fabric in order to vary the results more. 

 

The process of this project is based on a formula; I take pictures of my test results and then edit and distort each one of them to create a composition. Each composition is based on the "elements and principles of design" matrix chart. By referring to this chart, I create for myself a limited methodological system to adhere to when creating compositions. 

 

The final form of these compositions is a small, physical deck of cards that can each be viewed and assessed individually by the observer. The labels are isolated on the back of the cards so the viewer can make their own initial judgements about each design, and where they think it could fit on the matrix. They are indefinite and can be argued to fit in various modules.