Questions and thoughts about planned materials
Wood:
Type of Wood: Different types of wood exhibit distinct properties, including variations in density and grain patterns.
Thickness: What is the thickness of the wood? Thicker wood may necessitate increased power and slower cutting speeds. Does the chosen thickness align with the project’s requirements? The diorama needs to strike a balance between durability and portability.
Burn Marks: Wood often produces prominent burn marks during laser cutting. How can I effectively minimize or incorporate these marks into the design to achieve a visually appealing result?
Acrylic:
Thickness: Acrylic is available in a range of thicknesses. How does the chosen thickness impact the cutting process and the structural integrity of the final product?
Color and Transparency: Given my plan to layer patterns for added depth, it’s worth considering that acrylic comes in diverse colors and levels of transparency. How will the selected color and transparency options enhance or influence the overall design?
Material Wastage: Considering that materials from our laser labs can be relatively expensive, it’s important to explore strategies for minimizing material wastage in the laser cutting process.
Design Adaptation: Throughout this process, I found it necessary to acquire basic CAD skills to enhance my design capabilities. Learning a new software can be time-consuming, and it’s crucial to weigh feasibility against aesthetics when drafting patterns. How must my design be adjusted to accommodate the unique characteristics and constraints of wood and acrylic as laser cutting materials?
Past work that inspired or otherwise relates to the final project
During my freshman year, I embarked on an experimental diorama project using cardboard and wire. At that time, I encountered significant challenges when it came to cutting materials with precision and on a larger scale. The introduction of laser cutting technology was a game-changer, alleviating these issues. However, I am grateful for the lessons I learned during that initial experience, teaching me the importance of meticulous planning, forward thinking, and maintaining composure in the face of challenges and limitations.
This project also emphasized that the success of a diorama extends beyond its internal aesthetics. It encompasses the overall tidiness and craftsmanship of the work. Considerations such as the painting of cardboard and the methods used for assembling pieces play a crucial role in achieving a polished end result.
Additional inspiration work
In her hauntingly imaginative photographs, Lori Nix refracts our world through urban and rural landscapes, mostly devoid of human presence, yet constantly under the looming threat of manmade disasters and the relentless forces of nature. As she elaborates, “I create photographs that portray our deteriorating future and the impending demise of humanity, albeit with a touch of subtle humor.”
In her most recent project, “The City” (2005-11), Nix offers a glimpse into a crumbling New York City being reclaimed by nature. What I find truly inspiring about her work is not only the thematic resonance with my own project but also her adept use of visual contrast within a diorama to accentuate the central message. Through this approach, the diorama transcends being a mere scene and becomes an interactive piece that blurs the boundaries between the audience and the artist, allowing for a more profound and engaging connection.
