Caitlin Nelson
Every art project is an exercise in problem solving. The professor gives an assignment and it is up to each student to formulate a unique solution. For one project in particular in my 3D Foundations course, each student began with a basic box. From there we were instructed to create a new meaning and/or context for the box. The challenge then became determining concept, materials, and execution of the idea. I could use similar skills in my job during the summer of 2015. I worked for the YMCA of the Rockies as an assistant wedding coordinator. Because a couple’s wedding is such an important day, it was really important that I was able to problem solve. I was faced with a number of unique issues in high-pressure situations, but was able to help the couples with their needs. If I did not know right away the best solution, I was aware of the resources I had that could help.
Problem Solving
Weddings and Receptions
These reviews on WeddingWire.com are just two examples of the 25 weddings I assisted this summer. The wedding of the first reviewer forgot to bring forks for the cake, so I went to the restaurant on property and found forks. It was also raining right before the ceremony, but we were able to keep the sound equipment and wedding party dry and conduct the ceremony outside.
The second reviewer is referring to the way I negotiated an earlier start time by getting in contact with the officiant and guests. We also took measures to keep the outdoor cookout shelter warmer. Other instances of problem solving throughout the summer were creating a curtain for a reception venue out of PVC, burlap, and tulle, moving a wedding inside due to weather, finding other meeting spaces when accommodations were not ready.
Outside the Box
The project pictured here is just one of many examples of the problem solving skills I have applied. I first had to decide how I was going to remove the box from its normal context. It began with the idea that a box is meant to hold something, so I was going to remove that function. Along the way, plans changed as I adjusted to new problems that came up. I devised different methods of connecting the box together through hinges, slides, and pegs. Ultimately I turned the box into a puzzle-like object whose sides could be manipulated to move beyond the right angles of a standard box.
Shapes, 2014
Wood, metal hinges
7 x 7 x 7 in.