Picture Pattern Paper Model

DES4105.01
Course System Home Terms Fall 2025 Picture Pattern Paper Model

Course Description

Summary

In this course, we will explore the visual and spatial potential of cut paper models. The course will begin with a number of directed drawing and model-making exercises, and end with original work made with paper, knives, and glue. Students will study and do research on paper models by a variety of contemporary artists and architects–Zarina’s paper houses, Siah Armajani’s bridges, James Casebere’s abandoned tabletop constructions, Bodys Isek Kingelez’s dazzling utopian propositions, and many others. Through research and experimentation, we will discuss (the Constructivist notion of) the usefulness of art, interiors and photographic space, and the spatial paper object as a response to the modernist separation of media. While much of the work covered in this course relates to architectural space as rendered by artists, working through an architectural lens is not an expectation.

Learning Outcomes

  • 1. Learning to notice and engage with architectural discourse in contemporary art.
    2. Improved ability (through practice) to make quick spatial studies using paper and glue.
    3. Studying a few key texts on the relationship of art to architecture.
    4. Expanding our palette of fabrication techniques through study and imitation of existing artworks.

Prerequisites

- At least two prior (2 or 4 credit) VA courses (in any VA discipline)
- Willingness to work with physical materials

Please contact the faculty member : farhadmirza@bennington.edu

Instructor

  • Farhad Mirza

Day and Time

TH 8:30am-12:10pm

Delivery Method

Fully in-person

Length of Course

Full Term

Academic Term

Fall 2025

Area of Study

Credits

4

Course Level

4000

Maximum Enrollment

14

Course Frequency

Every 2-3 years