Artist Shane Hope creates incredibly intricate works by merging two cutting edge technologies: 3D printing and molecular nanotechnology.
“Species-Tool-Being No. 5″ 2012. 3D-printed PLA molecular models on acrylic substrate. 12″x12”. (detail)
Using advanced molecular modeling software, Hope designs new and abstracted “nano-scaled structures” on a computer. He then prints thousands of these models on a RepRap (an open-source, build-it-yourself, self-replicating 3D printer) in a vast range of colors and transparencies and finally collages them together in dynamic and well-considered compositions. The result will leave you speechless. To give a sense of scale, I photographed a few detail shots with common small items.
“Smartdustormin'”, 2013. 3D-printed PLA molecular models on acrylic substrate. 24″x24″
“Smartdustormin'” (detail with penny for scale)
“Species-Tool-Being No. 6″, 2012. 3D-printed PLA molecular models on acrylic substrate. 12″x12”
“Species-Tool-Being No. 6” (detail with LifeSaver for scale)
Cutting edge art is often in danger of being overshadowed by it’s own technology. The reason I love Shane Hope’s work so much is that as incredible as the technology behind the work is, you don’t need to know or understand any of it to be blown away by the visual experience. They are beautiful abstracted alien landscapes that will surprise and delight at every square inch and on every repeated visit. Enjoy more images on the exhibition website but don’t miss these in person.
What: The 3D printed art of Shane Hope
Where: Winkleman Gallery, 521 W 27th St, New York, NY
When: March 29, 2013 – May 4, 2013
All images courtesy the artist and Winkleman Gallery, New York. Full artwork photographs by Etienne Frossard. Detail images photographed by David Behringer.
