Seashell Abstractions | Cristian A. Guzman

This was one of the first projects I was assigned in my very first art class, Art 13 (3D Design). The first objective was to recreate an object using plastilina, making the replica as physically close to the original object as possible.

I chose a seashell because its surface has an almost symmetrical pattern, while the overall form still looks very organic. Seashells are also very interesting to look at and touch.

Original seashell beside a plastilina replica. — The original seashell on the left and the plastilina replica on the right.

The second objective was to use the replica as a starting point and create abstractions while still keeping the overall form of the original seashell in mind.

Plastilina seashell replica beside two abstracted versions of the same form. — The plastilina seashell replica on the left, followed by two abstractions derived from the same form.

Finally, I created another abstraction resembling the original seashell, this time using water-based plaster. I must admit that the process was quite time-consuming and, quite literally, painful, I ended up with blisters on my hands.

Original seashell beside the final abstract plaster interpretation. — The original seashell on the left and the final abstract interpretation on the right.

Side view of the final abstract seashell sculpture. — Side view of the final abstraction.

I had several ideas for what this final abstraction could look like, and although the physical process of making it was tedious, to say the least, I really enjoyed brainstorming different ideas and eventually bringing one of those ideas to life.

Back view of the final abstract seashell sculpture. — Back view of the final abstraction.

Front view of the final abstract seashell sculpture. — Front view of the final abstraction.