Instructors:
Prof. Dorothea Mink
Event type:
creative exercise
Displayed in timetable as:
ID.BA.GP1-4.14
Language of instruction:
German
Official Course Description:
A collaboration with Anna Rubin, internationally renowned kite maker from based in Austria.
https://www.annarubin.at
Our teaching areas are interwoven in an interdisciplinary manner in the design process.
The course is open to all study programmes.
Ms. Rubin will travel from Klagenfurt for two kite-making workshops.
THE PROJECT
Our desire as humans to fly is the main force behind the course we are offering:
Like Icarus in ancient times, later Eilmer of Malmesbury, who leaped from a church steeple with hand made wings
in the Middle Ages, and not least the sophisticated flying machines of Leonardo da Vinci.
The eye in the sky – an extension of the individual's physicality.
To see and be seen in the sky and on earth.
The kite as an interface between craftsmanship, tradition, knowledge, technology, design, and the arts.
Theoretical considerations illuminate the historical, mythological, and cultural context of the kite.
Associative form-finding, narrative or symbolic.
Flying a kite inspires the creation of one's own kite shape and also a unique style of clothing.
The kite reaches into the sky, takes root there, and blends with the sky, space, and landscape.
Through the flying kite, one becomes part of the air, wind, heavenly heights and views from up above.
Energy is released, wondrous and beautiful in its own unique way. A feeling of happiness arises from an ascension
merging our selves with the world.
OBJECTIVES OF THE COURSE
The focus is on the design and development of a flying kite as well as the clothing of the kite runner. Group work
is possible.
In this project, construction techniques for the kite and skeleton, pattern construction, and clothing correspond
with one another.
Using the technique of splitting bamboo, fine bamboo strips are crafted to build the kite's skeleton.
Mapping the body – parallel to the construction of the flying objects, the idea and form, character, and silhouette
are developed for the kite runners.
Materials for the flying membrane and body shell: The traditional kite-making materials bamboo and paper create
flight-capable objects analogous to the body and skin.
In dialogue with human movement and the skilled handling of the material, as well as knowledge of the wind,
form the basis for the artistic result.
First Week:
Workshop I with Anna Rubin
from December 15th to 18th, 2025
Monday to Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
in the auditorium
Fundamentals and Goals of Kite Making
Approaching the history and mythology of kites in different cultures.
Making paper kites opens up a wide range of experiences:
Getting to know the materials bamboo and paper.
Dyeing Chinese paper with precious, colourful drawing inks using the Japanese Shibori dyeing technique.
Exploring the structural and technical elements of kite building.
Learning dexterity with the bridle and tension cord, as well as the flying line.
Developing and designing a simple, flyable shape. This is immediately followed by the first steps in building a
custom flying object, optionally using other materials instead of paper.
And finally, the sense of achievement of flying the self-made kite, combined with learning flight techniques and
becoming acquainted with the speed, force and directions of wind.
No prior technical knowledge is required.
Second to fifth weeks – starting January 5, 2026:
Mondays and Tuesdays from 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Wednesdays from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
in Studio 4.10.040
Topics include the development and realisation of the outfit. Second, the associated design of the corresponding individual kite.
Human dimensions are being put in relation to the flying object:
Another goal is the creation of a body shell. The students' own ideas are translated into a thematically appropriate garment.
This could happen in the form of a story, a drawing, a photograph, an existing fabric, a worn-out favourite item, or just a thought.
Cutting and processing methods are used to develop a distinctive, personal style. The choice of the appropriate basic shape and
the careful development of three-dimensional proportions and lines are crucial for the success of the project. The methodical
approach significantly influences the style of the design.
The artistic intention is shaped by aesthetic considerations and stylistic issues.
Knowledge of fashion pattern construction is not required, but commitment, enthusiasm, and diligence are.
Sixth Week:
Workshop II with Anna Rubin
from Monday, February 2nd Until Wednesday, February 4, 2026, daily from 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
in Hall XIA1
Creation of the individual kite.
Seventh Week:
Completion of the garment and collective planning for the presentation of the results.
Monday and Tuesday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
in Studio 4.10.040
Additional Information:
The interdisciplinary course is open to all study programs.
CP:
9,0
Prüfungsleistung:
The examination will take the form of a presentation of the work results and the design created in the course.
This presentation should demonstrate that the tools of the design process have been understood and can be
applied. The grade is based on the concept, the practical work or exercises in the workshops, the presentation,
and the documentation.
(SID module handbook)
Prüfungsform:
Presentation of results and documentation
Prüfungstermin(e):
At the end of the winter semester 2026
Prüfungskriterien:
After regular and active participation, the module will be concluded with an examination/presentation.
(SID module handbook)
room:
Auditorium, Studio 4.10.040, Hall XIA1
date / time:
PROJECT PLANNING – these dates are obligatory for all participants of the course!
From December 15th 2025 until February 13th 2026
Please find all details above.
