Playing with scale: Research and project reflections

Ron Mueck, Couple Under an Umbrella, 2013

The scale of art can greatly affect its visual impact and emotional resonance with audience. By playing with scale, subverting expectation and defying convention, artists can create works that are thought-provoking and memorable, challenging viewers to reconsider their preconceived notions of art and beauty.

Jeff Koons, The Balloon Dog (magenta), 1993

Large-scale art has the power to command attention and create a sense of presence that smaller works may struggle to achieve. By immersing viewers in the artwork, artists can create a more profound and lasting impact, making a powerful statement that resonates long after the artwork has been viewed.

Left: Aleia Murawski, Tiny People Nails, 2015; Right: Aleia Murawski, Short on Milk, 2016. 

On the other end of the spectrum, small-scale art offers a sense of intimacy and intricacy that can be incredibly captivating. By drawing viewers in and inviting them to explore, small-scale art creates a more intimate and personal connection with the viewer, allowing for a deeper appreciation of skill and craftsmanship.

Below are some reflections on the use of scale with regards to my two proposals:

Art doll

My instinct is to create a slightly oversized doll, forcing a personal, immersive experience rather than the detached observation lens of miniatures. This may change and that's fine, I will just remain responsive to the smaller pieces that emerge from my experiments and test process.

Dog prints

Because these pieces hinge on emotional connection with my audience, and because it is financially and logistically possible within the timeline for this project, I plan to make these prints as large as possible. This will create a dramatic and immersive experience, commanding attention and shaping the mood of the space.