3D Printing

Daniel Widrig’s Wearable Sculptures with Corporeal Inspiration Display Materialise’s 3D Printing Prowess

3D printed fashion is heading towards commonplace on the catwalks of the world, and the cited website offers a beautiful display of how flexible material can be printed and unfolded into dresses. However, what makes 3D printing unique is best displayed by artists like Daniel Widrig. His wearable sculptures are on display this week during Design Miami. With 3D printing, creative minds are free to play with concepts and materials uninhibited by production costs and time that often hinder haute couture.

Daniel Widrig’s own designs feature matte forms that defy traditional accessory categories. The kind of iconoclast approach to fashion can be directly attributed to 3D printing and its continual integration into various art and design mediums allowing for approaches previously only fit for niche audiences. Widrig’s design can only be categorized as wearable sculptures because they are not necklaces or any other label typical in fashion. He has literally created wearable art. In his case, the body inspired the sculptures.

Each piece can be customized to the individual body type while maintaining a consistent form. The exoskeleton spine is sharp and curved so that it accentuates the natural contours of the back and shoulders. It is intimidating and sexy. In contrast, the other works spiral around, like a surreal python around the neck underscoring shoulders and bust. Inspired by contractions and expansion of muscles, it is easy to see the muscle fibrils twisting with the printed parts.

Wearable Kinesis by Daniel Widrig

3D printing specialist Materialise manufactured the products with polyamide/nylon powder using the laser sintering  process, which gave the designs the flexibility and durability Widrig wanted. By scanning the wearer’s body, the prints fit perfectly. The finished product brings to life Widrig’s desire to merge the sculpture with the body. Miami will be the stage and hopefully a checkpoint along Widrig’s growing catalogue of 3D printing wearable sculptures.

Source: Dezeen