With instructions to bring a stack of newspaper and a bottle of carpenter's glue to the first class meeting, I was anxious and excited to see what we would be doing with it. After the instructions were given, I was glad we were already going to be problem solvers. We were instructed to build a structure that would hold a cinderblock as high off the floor as we could make it.
To be honest, I was a bit skeptical at first. That block was heavy! But I knew it wasn't impossible if the teacher was setting aside such a large amount of time for us to do it. My first thought was of a project we did in grade school, and learning that cylinders/tubes/columns are very strong structures. Without really thinking or planning, I tightly rolled up a piece of newspaper into a long, skinny tube. After making this, I realized it wasn't going to be strong enough, nor did I have a plan to use it. The stability of the long, skinny piece wasn't going to be enough for the large piece of concrete that would be placed on top. So, I started making the opposite - short, and wide cylinder shapes out of newspaper. I thought these would be more stable. I measured the width of the block and made four of the shorter cylinders to support each corner. Then, I made some thin, longer rolls of paper to hold the corner pieces together. I let this first layer dry some and tested it out with the cinderblock. I was very pleased with the initial stability of the structure. So, I kept going - making nearly identical layers and stacking them on the first layer.
Eventually, I came up with this:
I let it dry some and tested it out. Unfortunately, it wasn't stable or sturdy enough to support the weight of the cinderblock. I added some extra support between layers by rolling up paper just like the ones on the corners to put between corners, in hopes of being able to distribute the pressure from all the weight being laid upon the structure. With time ticking, I hoped for the best with this quick solution. There wasn't time to start over and make a structure that would be worthwhile. So, with more support added to the initial design I left it as is and hoped it would be sturdy enough after the glue dried some. I really enjoyed getting messy with this project - I think not being afraid to get dirty while working on art is an important thing. I thought the build-up of glue on my fingers was worthy of a photo. So, here it is:
After Lunch, we all came back to test the structures. I enjoyed seeing all the different ideas and creations based off the same directions and supplies available. Sadly, my structure did not support the weight of the block. The corner supports were not lined up exactly so when the weight was applied they collapsed... twas a sad sight. BUT! I am proud of the effort I put into building it. I worked diligently through the whole time available. Here is a photo of my structure after the cinderblock was put on it...
If I could start over and do the project again, I would put more support throughout the entire structure instead of just around the edges. I would also be sure to allow time for the glue to completely before applying any weight to it. I think ambition will be something to I have to work on for the whole semester. Dreaming big and stepping outside of my comfort zone. I'd rather "fail" while trying something outrageous than "fail" while playing on the safe side.
am•bi•tion |amˈbi sh ən|
noun
a strong desire to do or to achieve something, typically requiring determination and hard work
• desire and determination to achieve success : life offered few opportunities for young people with ambition.
ORIGIN Middle English : via Old French from Latin ambitio(n-), from ambire ‘go around (canvassing for votes).’
