Lesson 1 - Introduction to scale and model making - 07/10/16

- 'Trifles'

Study Task  - Who uses model boxes?

Almost everyone as model boxes are a communication tool that allows information about the set to be spread quickly and efficiently through the different disciplines. The more detail a model box, the more exact

Directors
Directors will look at model boxes to see what kind of space they're working with. Accuracy and scale are particularly useful as it shows them if there are any limitations or problems they need to work around. If it is a touring piece, they may look at the different components of the set and how they'll need to be transported. Initial sketch boxes will also give them a chance to collaborate with the design team in order to create a final piece that is in line with their vision.

Production Manager
The production manager looks at model boxes to asses the production and looks at any health and safety related issues, e.g are actors working at height? Are there trap doors? Are there any heavy or sharp set pieces?
In addition to this, production managers may be able to look at how much the set will cost. Are they acting within budget?

Stage Managers

Stage managers would look at model boxes to get an idea of spacing and the rough size of the set. This allows them to mark out rehearsal rooms, plan entrances and exits. Additionally, if it is a touring show, it allows them to plan for transport and storage. Also allows them to see what the show actually is and so allows them to plan ahead, for example they will be able to plan for any projections. They may also look at how many things need to be switched around and what changes scene to scene. There is one sequence in the Woman in Black where a child's bedroom needs to be destroyed in secret while action takes place elsewhere. The SM has a three minute interval to pull the fly down, climb onto stage and wreck the room. In this instance the model box could be used to plan routes and timing.

Lighting Designers
Lighting designers can use model boxes use model boxes in a similar way to directors, using them to test out different lighting designs and locate any problem areas that may need additional lighting. They can look at what lighting fixtures are already included within the set and what the potential is for adding more. They may look at what the colours of the set are so they don't use colours on the other side of the colour wheel, for example, using red light on a blue set would make all the blue come out black. Additionally, they would also look at where the play takes place as they would light a kitchen and a forest very differently. If the set is open or has windows they may need to consider lighting the set in accordance with what the time is within the set.
In the 'Woman in Black' example below, the set has a wire mesh that splits the stage in two. In this instance, the lighting designer would need to take care with lighting so to not reveal up stage.

Scenic Artists
Scenic Artists would use model boxes to see the different textures, patterns, colours and techniques that need to be applied to the life size set. It is their job to transfer what they see on the model box to the set itself. For example, in the Woman in Black model box, the design uses a wire mesh painted to look like stormy skies. The scenic artist is able to use this as a reference point and know exactly what is wanted. It will give them a chance to plan out how they are going to go about painting the set.

Designers
Model boxes allow designers to plan out and experiment with themes and locations. They are able to make sure the set fits in with the director's artistic vision and the overall atmosphere of the play. From the initial sketch model to the final version, model boxes allow designers to explore different ideas and show what it is they are actually going to do. The different stages of model boxes mean that the designer is able to work with the disciplines from the very beginning in order to create a final piece in which all the different dramatic elements work together, Certain productions are very specific with what is required. For these plays the designer may want to use model boxes to see how the requirements can be realistically.

Scenic Construction
Model boxes show exactly what is wanted and is a tool that allows those in scenic construction to make more detailed plans. It gives them a better ideas of materials they need, how much they need to build (height and width), what they need to build; doors, tables. It also gives them an idea of what techniques they'll need to use like welding, carpentry. They will also be able to see if any part of the set or any work they do needs to be hidden. The more accurate the scale and measurements of the model box, the more information the set constructor is able to gain.

Actors
Model boxes are the first time the cast will see the space they'll be using. They'll be able to look at the style of the play and alter the way they perform their characters to fit it. It may also help to reassure them that the designer knows what it is they're doing.

Although hard to make out, this picture depicts the Harry Potter: The Cursed Child model box. In this model box the set designer has included wall lanterns (pictured below) and ceiling hangings. This instantly sets out the basic lighting and allows the lighting designer to plan additional lighting around this.


Need more visuals. 

In the title example of 'Trifles,' the designer wanted to create a realistic and dark depiction of a kitchen area. The director would be


http://www.bbc.co.uk/education/guides/z39x34j/revision/2
https://www.behance.net/gallery/15217479/Model-box
https://www.pottermore.com/news/cursed-child-set-design-christine-jones-interview
Model Making: Materials and Methods - book
The Woman in Black image was my own picture.

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Introduction to model making - Lesson notes

Tools Used

Scalpel
Cutting mat
Foam board
Wood glue?
Metal ruler
Scale ruler

"Scale is the ratio between the size of something and the representation of it."

1:50 is the scale most commonly used by architects because of the grand scale of the buildings they work with. A smaller scale would mean that the model boxes would be huge themselves.
1:25 is the scale most used by scenographers because it is small enough to not be cumbersome while still big enough to show detail.

In this lesson we created flats, rostrums, treads and a ramp to scale. On the whole I think I did well at this task as all of my measurements were to the exact specifications of the design plan. However, some of my edges came away a little rough or a little off either because I (regrettably) used the wrong side of the scalpel or I moved too quickly and did not stay in line with the metal ruler. However, as I grew more confident and had practice, I began to improve and my work became more exact. If I were to repeat the exercise I would move more slowly when cutting the shapes out.

Overall, I really enjoyed the lesson and thought it was a great introduction to making model boxes, I just need to learn to take my time when working. In addition, when looking back over my model boxes I noticed that not all pieces went perfectly together, with one gap over over a millimeter and one piece on my treads being a little lose. Once again I think this was due to cutting out too quickly.