Hosted by: ACerS Washington DC/Maryland/Virginia Section

Wednesday, August 7, 2024; 1p.m. – 2p.m. Eastern US time

Sponsored by the ACerS Washington DC/Maryland/Virginia Section, the August webinar will feature one speaker: Casting a New Perspective, Digital Fabrication and Craft

DESCRIPTION

Casting a New Perspective, Digital Fabrication and Craft

This recent body of research explores the synergy of digital technologies and traditional craft processes. The digital fabrication process utilizes the virtual space of CAD (computer aided design) to design objects that focus on unique geometry by translating cross sectional shapes through space to create lofted and blended three dimensional forms. These forms approach utilitarian ware as well as sculptural bodies of work through the traditional process of mold making and slip casting. The CAD objects and molds are 3D printed which are then cast in plaster through which the slip casting process is utilized to translate the forms into various ceramic materials, including midrange porcelain, stoneware, and low fired terra cotta. The objects are then treated through the ceramic process of glazing, firing, and finishing with mixed media.

BIOGRAPHY

Prof. Chaz Martinsen, Visiting Assistant Professor of Art, Department of Art and Archaeology, Hood College

As a passionate educator, researcher, and object maker, Chaz Martinsen focuses on the synergy of digital fabrication and craft materials while blending unique geometry for functional wares and exploring scientific data that is translated into the physical realm through CAD, digital fabrication, and traditional casting processes.

Chaz earned a BA in Applied Design with an Emphasis in Ceramics from San Diego State University in 2011 and a Master of Fine Arts degree in Ceramics and Digital Fabrication from California State University, Chico in 2015. He received a Windgate Senior Research Fellow position at Herron School of Art+Design in 2016 to explore digital fabrication techniques with the ceramic process. Since 2016, he has held various teaching and research positions at schools such as Herron School of Art+Design, Clarke University, and Hood College.

His work has continued to explore how digital techniques can complement the traditional ceramic process. He focuses on the use of 3D printing to create prototypes and mold systems that are in turn translated into ceramic materials through the act of mold making and slip casting. The works that Chaz creates approach functional and sculptural objects that are fired in a range of kilns from low fire electric to high fire reduction and soda atmospheres. Formal design qualities take precedent in the functional work while presenting interesting objects to the viewer. The sculptural work explores humanity’s relationship to the environment, exploration of planetary bodies and the synergy of science and fine art. He has shown work across the country in galleries, juried exhibitions, invitationals and at the National Conference on the Education of the Ceramic Arts.

REGISTRATION

Registration is now closed. If you missed the webinar, ACerS members can view it here upon logging in. Member log-in required.

If you have any questions, please contact Vicki Evans.

This webinar is brought to you by the ACerS Washington DC/Maryland/Virginia Section.