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Can computer technologies provide strong new environments and tools for artists to create impressive sculptures? Today, with computer-aided design (CAD) methods, 3-D shapes can be mathematically represented, computationally built, interactively designed, and virtually displayed in the cyber world. These virtual objects can even be “re-built” in our real world with modern fabrication technologies. |
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“Computer-aided sculpture techniques can even extend the human capability to design meaningful new shapes.”
Hon Nin Chow, Acute and Smooth, 2008. Sintered polymer powder, 10 x 10 x 10 cm. Courtesy of the artist.
Future: Sculpture
Hon Nin Chow
Can computer technologies provide strong new environments and tools for artists to create impressive sculptures? Today, with computer-aided design (CAD) methods, 3-D shapes can be mathematically represented, computationally built, interactively designed, and virtually displayed in the cyber world. These virtual objects can even be “re-built” in our real world with modern fabrication technologies.
The cyber world has an important role in offering a unique and powerful working platform at different stages of shape design. These stages include conceptual design, shape modification, strength analysis, and visual effect evaluation with different building materials, under various lighting conditions. These critical tasks can be done in the cyber world without the costly materials and handling fees at the trial design stage.
Although computer aided sculpture-making remains a largely unexplored area, there have been some pioneering sculptures created in the academic community. Some dedicated methods can even extend the human capability to design meaningful new shapes, which can be difficult to achieve with traditional design approaches. People may wonder if there will be more and more breakthrough sculptures created in the near future, and I believe certainly there will be.
Between 2005 and 2008, I produced an original CAD method to design a new class of 3-D porous structures with functions intended for selected engineering applications. More recently, I have recognized that 3-D shapes with spatial structures and features can be highly aesthetic. The artistic effects can be further enhanced with particular visual viewpoints and shading by lighting. This understanding motivates me to build attractive CAD sculptures. With simple mathematical expressions and novel design techniques, I build my sculpture works with harmonic and modern themes.
The artist Hon Nin Chow has graduated from the University of Hong Kong’s Department of Mechanical Engineering with a doctorate degree in research. He is 32 years old and currently lives in Hong Kong, China. He can be reached at kyle.hnchow at gmail.com.
