Pumpkin Carving

In order to prepare for the next step in our value project, which I can only assume is printmaking, we have been carving pumpkins and squashes. This project has been helpful in the acquisition of skill in the use of the linoleum cutters required to carve out rubber and linoleum blocks used in printmaking. Unlike traditional carving, we have been taking shavings out of the gourds instead of simply cutting completely through. This has led to increased dimensionality, depth, and complexity in our designs. An added challenge of carving our pumpkins was to base the design on one of our classmates organic structures from the previous project.

This was my first attempt with the linoleum cutter. It was based loosely on the staggered shapes found in a pinecone. I did not care for how cluttered the design was becoming once the little characters were texturized. The density of the pumpkin was also contributing to my difficulties because it was so difficult to accurately and safely cut through. 

Side

Top Detail

Top with Linoleum Cutter

After some deliberation, I tossed my original and began fresh. The result was a much more organic and appealing design. This pattern is much more true to the systems of the pinecone and more true to the nature of the assignment.