This week we have been hosting Black Country Atelier as part of the Samsung Digital Classroom to create 3D printed jewellery inspired by the V&A’s collections. Black Country Atelier are a studio of artists, designers, scientists and engineers who as well as taking on commissions, run innovative design workshops in schools and museums.
We have collaborated once before, way back in 2012 as part of the British Design: 1948 – 2012 exhibition and it was great to have them back. Previously we ran what were very busy sessions with families redesigning classic British cars and printing them and by the end of the week had worked with 3,000 people,created our own mini factory and production line and put in a few night shifts as well!
This session however was a lot more relaxed despite having a full class. Over two days students learnt the basics of CAD through using Google Sketchup and then started to interpret their drawn designs into 3D models. By the time the second day had come around, even those who have never touched CAD before were producing original designs taking elements and ideas from across the V&A galleries, producing earrings, pendants, hairclips and necklaces.
Many thanks to Black Country Atelier for coming in to deliver an amazing session over the two days! The Samsung Digital Classroom is a new programme for 16 – 19 year olds which offers hands on, practical workshops exploring the latest in digital art and design. You can find more of our Samsung Digital Classroom Sessions online here and follow blogs about the sessions through News from the Learning Department.
