CSE325

CSE325

Computers and Sculpture

3

George Hart

This multidisciplinary class surveys how computer science and computer technology are used in sculpture. Case studies with slides, videos, and software demonstrations illustrate a range of approaches of sculptors incorporating computers in their creative process. Various state-of-the art fabrication technologies are studied with site visits if available on campus. Mathematical foundations are emphasized so students can recognize them when analyzing sculpture and choose the right tool when designing. In the weekly laboratory, these ideas are reinforced with projects using a range of available software and inexpensive construction materials, e.g., paper, cardboard, and foamcore.

CSE110 or permission of instructor.

• Expose students to software tools and hardware technologies for designing and fabricating 3D sculpture.
• Explore geometric ideas of pattern and structure, such as fractals, symmetry, polyhedra, surfaces, and non-Euclidean geometry.
• Provide students with the opportunity to create their own individual or group sculpture projects.
  

Readings handed out by instructor.

• Introduction
• Sculpture (historical and modern)
• Geometric Foundations
• Representation of solids on a computer.
• Technologies: solid freeform fabrication, milling, laser cutting, etc.
• Mathematical forms: symmetry, fractals, polyhedra, surfaces, etc.
• Solid modeling techniques
• Using Software packages: Maya, Stella, Mathematica Algorithmic design Study of individual sculptors