17 May 2007

Changing the nuts and bolts at Degree Show 2007

Visitors to the Degree Show at the University of Dundee over the next week will be able to get their hands on a giant toy set, with every move changing the shape of the artwork on offer.

Interior and Environmental Design student Jonathan Morris (23), from Leven, has designed and constructed a giant cardboard `Meccano’ - style set which can be used just like the toy but on a considerably larger scale. The set consists of 4 sheets, 8 triangles, beams and bolts and will be set up on an open air site outside Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art & Design (part of the University of Dundee).

"The idea behind the set is that you can use these parts to experiment with the endless possibilities of constructing a small dwelling or sculpture, exposing the opportunity within cardboard whilst conveying architectural undertones" said Jonathan.

"The set can be built in almost any location, outdoors or indoors. It is adaptable to its surroundings, for instance in a wooded area the trees can be used to hold up and lean different parts onto, so the set can take on entirely new shapes beyond what its own pieces can offer."

"I’m hoping that when people come to Degree Show they will interact with the set and start doing their own things with it. It’s going to be interesting to see how it changes over the course of the week."

The changing work will be monitored by a camera which will supply a live video feed back into gallery space within the art college.

Jonathan has researched the eco-friendly qualities of the material and looked at ways of waterproofing the cardboard to help it withstand the rain outdoors. Local company Langlands and McAinsh have helped manufacture the cardboard kit of parts for the Degree Show exhibition.

Degree Show 2007 takes place at Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art & Design and the University of Dundee School of Architecture from May 19th to 26th. Opening times are 9.30 am to 8.30 pm Monday to Friday, 9.30 am to 4.30 pm at the weekend (closes 2 pm Saturday May 26th). Entrance is free and all are welcome to attend. www.dundee.ac.uk/pressoffice/degreeshow07/

For media enquiries contact:
Roddy Isles
Head, Press Office
University of Dundee
Nethergate Dundee, DD1 4HN
TEL: 01382 384910
E-MAIL: r.isles@dundee.ac.uk