This class is an exploration of the magic inherent in moving from 2-D shape to 3-D form. Sliceform structures are as they sound—they take evenly-spaced “slices” or cross sections of a shape and arrange them on a grid. That grid can stand up as a 3-D object or collapse down into a flat, closed card.  

Because of their capability to collapse, sliceforms are a popular structure for pop-up books and cards. They can effectively and captivatingly portray both surfaces—like platonic solids—as well and interior/exterior relationships like architecture. We will discuss how artists such as Donald Judd and Tauba Auerbach have used them (either explicitly or hidden) in their work  

Day one will be devoted to assembling and understanding different types of sliceforms (from cubes to spheres, to donuts.) Precut pieces will be provided. 

Day two will focus on strategies for designing your own sliceform. We will approach the problem both additively and subtractively and will discuss how computational and manual tools can help us tackle this tricky design challenge. Students will leave class with a sliceform of their own design.  

Required Materials

• Each student will receive a packet of cut-out parts from the instructor 
• A pack of Astrobrights cover stock paper or equivalent 
• Xacto knife  
• A steel ruler 
• Scotch quick dry glue 
• Matboard or cardboard 

Workspace set up for online participants

• A table with a cutting mat 
• Good lighting 
• A computer or device with stable internet connection 
• Zoom app recommended 

Recommended paper suppliers

• Neenah Paper (paper) 
• Talas online (bookmaking supplies, paper, etc) 
• French paper (family-owned and hydroelectric!) 
• Staples also has good, inexpensive, readily-available cardstock