These models are exercises in using digital fabrication techniques to bring virtual models into a physical presence. They were created in the ISU summer session File to Fabrication class.
The Tōrō model is a laser cut acrylic cross section of a traditional japanese stone lantern. It was modeled using the software Rhino, split into sections, edited to interlock in Illustrator and cut out of 1/8″ clear acrylic on a ULS flatbed laser cutter.
Leaf Skeleton is a 3D print made from many layers of fused ABS plastic. It began as a line drawing in Illustrator, was extruded into a 3D model in Rhino and printed using a Dimension uPrint 3D Printer. The model bends in the z-plane to utilize the separable substrate to create a shape that engages complex negative space.
The other two projects use digital fabrication in support of other mixed media techniques. The Modern Book of Hours uses a laser-etched plate to mimic a lithographic plate. We the People uses laser cut figures as a substrate for a non-traditional artist’s book.