Topher Gent
Topher Gent is an artist, designer and researcher. His background in design and product development includes jewelry and luxury goods, wearable e-textiles, furniture, lighting and ceramics. Through objects and form, Topher explores the conflicts and dualities of excess and minimalism, perceived value and the role of 3D design in visual communication. His studio work often reflects on making and his relationship to craft and designed objects. With a curiosity about the influence of digital objects on contemporary material culture, his most recent research is focused on objecthood and the intersections of handcraft and advanced manufacturing technologies.
Before joining the faculty at RISD, Topher taught 3D Design at Swarthmore College and worked with the Center for Functional Fabrics at Drexel University.
Courses
Fall 2024 Courses
FOUND 1005-02
STUDIO: SPATIAL DYNAMICS
SECTION DESCRIPTION
Studio: Spatial Dynamics is a studio-based inquiry into physical, spatial and temporal phenomena. The study of Spatial Dynamics is rooted in the necessity to consider forces and their effects on structure. Force is the consequence of energy. In Spatial Dynamics the energy and resultant forces are studied in actual motion, stability, and materiality. The structures of physical, spatial and temporal phenomena are studied through additive, subtractive, transformative, iterative, and ephemeral processes both analog and digital. Mediums and materials that are commonly explored and utilized have a broad range of characteristics due to their organic and synthetic sources. Most assignments utilize methods such as preliminary sketches and diagrams in research, planning, and experimental processes. Assignments reference the histories and theories of art and design and include areas of inquiry that extend to disciplines such as the sciences, music, dance, film, and theater.
Enrollment is limited to First-Year Undergraduate Students.
Major Requirement | BFA