DCU Institute of Education
DCU Institute of Education
DrawBots

DrawBots - BEd2 Major Specialism in Art

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Education degree students who elect to do a Major Specialism in Art had the opportunity to creatively expand on the curriculum strand of construction. The students looked at the STE(A)M (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Mathematics) concept of Draw-Bots. They were charged with building 3D constructions that could vibrate and draw pictures using simple electronics, to drive a propeller, which in turn causes motion. The feet of the Bots create marks, derived from coloured markers and pencils.

Initially DrawBots researched by the students were predominately science driven and were more concerned with functionality e.g.balance and movement rather than the aesthetics. The main goals for this project were for the students was a) to maximise the potential visual effects of the motion and vibration, making Art the driving force of the construction;b)to design and build individual drawing machines from recycled materials incorporating more traditional art materials, such as pencils and paintbrushes; c) to create artistic collaborative drawings. The constructions had to be lightweight and creative and functional, they were an enormous challenge but a very rewarding and learning experience for all involved.

The culmination of the work was exhibited/ performed on the X day 2018, on St Patrick's Campus.
Thanks to Paul Murphy video, and Colin MacAulay art Lecturer.