TGF Project Introduction

TGF stands for "Transforming Geometric Form". Simply put, this project is designed to build your visualization and dexterity skills through the manipulation of very simple materials: paper and glue.

Although there are defined sets of processes and rules to TGF, the creativity and unique solutions brought to it are reflected in the image at the top of this page. It is possible to follow all of the same rules, and still make something never before seen. Every student has the opportunity to come up with something original.

TGF is about invention. It is a demonstration of the inventive process. What is really meant by that term? It's about origination. But, what is origination? What is truly original?

As an intellectual exercise, consider any product or invention that you feel is especially original. Pick anything, even artistic expression. Think about every aspect of it that you can: what is it made out of, how is it made, what does it do, when did it come to be, and how did it come to be? Guaranteed, there was a precursor, and that precursor came from something else, and so-on and so-on, until you find that the barest idea already exists in nature.

As the oft-quoted saying goes, "hindsight is 20-20". It is very easy to understand where an idea came from, but where it goes to next is the big unanswered question. That is the question you are to ask yourself over and over on this project.

As you will experience, it is not necessary to be a genius to come up with ideas. In fact, ideation is a fundamental human ability. Of course, there is a gradient, where some find it almost impossible to turn off the flow of ideas to the point of fatigue, while others feel they have no creative ability at all. Rest assured, you ideate regularly.

Finally, it must be pointed out that some ideas are better than others. This is where you are to stretch your boundaries. It is not good enough to simply take the easy route; the quickest path, the first and only thought. Because you are in an art class, aesthetics are very important. The goal is to make beautiful, elegant, and interesting objects.

Take pride in your work. Develop your problem solving prowess, and further your dexterity. The payoff is when you recognize that you can tackle difficult problems by breaking them down to manageable steps.