We begin with a 9"X12" practice paper. All the edges are "axis". 2 slanted cuts are made dividing it into 3 pieces, making 2 new axis. Into all edges are cut a variety of linear, curved, combined, large, small, even or irregular shapes. The cut shapes are placed on another background and arranged into a composition following the original axis lines.

The previous practice was to see relationships between positive (the shape cut) and negative (the space left after it is removed), to experience direct cutting of form, and to place, remove, and arrange the resultant forms into a cohesive whole.

  Next, we move on to a 12"X18" format--this time for keeps, following the above procedure for step one. PART 2 however, is to create a new organization of forms. Three results are below. These choices were given: (a)Two axis could be dominant, or no axis at all. Shapes could be repeated, altered, circumscribed, removed, justaposed, wrapped, layered etc. (b)10 textures were to define contrast areas. (c)Tonal values were to be determined with jet black, sepia, jet black + sepia, or eithor on a smooth or textured background paper of choice.

  Each solution was unique. The above image shows layers, circumscribed textures, removal, repetition and textured mirror images. To the above right is 3-dimensionality, curvilinear forms, and no visible axis. At right is a nicely organized out-of-the-frame imaginative rendering with 2 axis. Each to his own!

The cutting of shapes offered two possibilities: the shapes could be retained with some modifications, or used as constructs to visual new formations and/or three dimensionalize. Sometimes, direct cutting rather than drawing has very unique results Now, on to PART 3!