Astrological predictions are often a bit too approximate for accurate predictions, even when they are based on the Chinese millenary culture. However they are a great subject for conversation and, apparently, also a great inspiration for 3D printing. To celebrate the Chinese New Year, the astrological year of the Horse, that began last Janurary 31st, Stratasys put its newest “workhorse”, the Objet500 Connex3 multi-material and multi-color 3D printer, to work.
Israeli digital artist Arie Sztajnworc used the first multi material, multi colour 3D printer to create a vibrantly colourful 3D printed horse, with highly detailed Chinese writing at the base of it saying: “Gong Hey Fat Choy!”, that is “Best Wishes and Congratulations. Have a Prosperous and Good Year”. The rearing horse was 3D printed using a combination of three different materials: rigid opaque VeroYellow for the mane and tail, VeroMagenta for the body and VeroCyan for writing and details, all in one single print run.
Stratasys underlined that in Chinese astrology the Horse sign is regarded as an intelligent, elegant and energetic animal, all useful traits for a year that is setting up to be of fundamental importance for the growth of the 3D printing sector. It is also considered to be – in case you had not noticed from the extreme colour juxtaposition – a very flamboyant sign.
