Sculpture Assignment #1

“Formtography” By: Harry Abramson

As time progresses technology is becoming more and more advanced, even in the art world. Harry Abramson writes about this subject in his “Formtography” article in 2007. Formtography is basically the process in which a subject is virtually scanned onto a computer. This three-dimensional data captive involves a 3D laser that scans objects into digital form by pin-pointing certain coordinates of the subject to represent the structure, hundreds to thousands of tiny points create the form. As technology increases and this reproductive method advances, machines are created to actually carve out the sculpture from a block of material by a computer-controlled tool from a digitized model, this process is called Computer Numeric Controlled milling. Some artists today prefer to sculpt a foam model that is then transferred to the computer for touch-ups. Although this new method may seem like an incredible technological advancement, it has changed the sculpture world by allowing anyone to use this system, art becomes easier to produce, replicate, improve, etc. Because of this ideas and imagination must evolve along with our new found form of art.

1. Is Formtography a legitimate form of art?
2. What is the most common way to use Formtography?
3. How does this new method affect modern artists?

“The Digital Stone Project” By: William V. Ganis

William V. Ganis writes in his article “The Digital Stone Project” about this non-profit organization that uses Computer-Numeric-Controlled mills and lathes for the soul purpose of creating art in 2007. Originally, this studio, located between NYC and Philadelphia, was going to be broken down by the Atlantic Foundation and all machinery was to be separated and given to stone-cutting services. A team of artists, stone division directors and sculptors, bought this company and began to experiment and work with this new form of art. Although they have been involved with many projects using this process to reproduce, enlarge, or even produce restorative operations these machines still lack in precise molding. For example many types of machines vary in detail and the artist cannot solely rely on these technologies. After most sculptures are made, touch-ups and defining tools are used to correct the model and further shape the subject to look like the original mold. It is true that as we continue to use this equipment such machines will eventually become more advanced and will be able to identify significant detail.

1. Can we only rely on these machines?
2. How can we use these tools to benefit society?
3. What flaws does this system create?

“Ars. Ex Machina: Digital Sculpture” By: William V. Ganis

In the article, “Ars. Ex Machina: Digital Sculpture,” William V. Ganis gives feedback on how Rapid Prototyping, Formtography, is affecting society in 2004. This machinery takes sculpture to another level by allowing such methods to become more progressive then the human hand. This technology is becoming a mainstream element and is quickly spreading through the globe. Data is easier to transfer through RP machines, and physical expressions of mathematical formulas, complex polyhedrons, and imagery derived from ultrasound are created through this system as well. Although it is rising in popularity, it is still an exclusive product that is limited to a few corporations, because it is still in its early stages. As these machines advance they will be able to incorporate color, illusionistic material expression, moving parts, as well as controlled application of various materials. For now, this method has not yet become an identified form of art because of its industrial background. Eventually as it spreads throughout the globe and enters the educational system, which it partially has, it will become another “in” product of our time.

1. What is the difference between RP and CNC milling?
2. Can anyone use RP software?
3. Should this become the new foundation when it comes to creating sculptures?

Each article relates by focusing on Formtography and elaborating on the endless possibilities that RP technology and CNC milling are just now providing. Companies are switching to this process because it is fast and becoming more affordable. Although these technologies are “super” programs, they still have acquired many faults. This system is still not up to it's full potential and some machines designed for Formtography cannot produce exact replicas of the original subject. Other devices are lacking in qualities such as detail or color, which varies on certain machines. Each article also gives the message that soon this sort of method will become the main focus when it comes to sculpture. Machines are becoming easier to use and it is developing drastically in society. Several different corporations, including educational services, are using this technology currently and even further progressing its accomplishments. Eventually, it will become a known form of art that can be used by virtually any person.