Laser Cut Bell
Why: I choose this assignment for my exploration of media because I successfully learned how to use the laser cutter in order to create my bell. I combined my use of illustrator and the laser cutter to make a project that is completely unique to what I have previously done before.
Abstract: The primary objective of designing this bell was to acquire a comprehensive understanding of a new technology, specifically the laser cutter. Utilizing Adobe Illustrator to develop profiles for the final artwork that would be produced on the laser cutter provided me with a wealth of knowledge on the program. Synthesizing the two-dimensional form of the object into a three-dimensional structure was a crucial aspect of the design process that further honed my skills.
Process
I deconstructed the object into various cross sections and measured the material depth for laser cutting. Strategizing the creation of topographical layers and overlapping cutouts to form the bell, I made each layer hollow due to the limited wood available.
Using Illustrator, I designed and layered the shapes to ensure precise calculations. Enhancing the design, I added a hand-traced flower pattern, masking it atop the layers. The finished file was taken to the maker-space where the shapes were cut and hot-glued together to complete the project.
Final
I created this bell in remembrance of my grandmother who used to collect bells and felt that this project really challenged me at times. It is definitely an experience that took an abnormal amount of time but was the most rewarding.
