I found out about Modla’s existence a few months ago, when they participated at TheOtherArt Fair. I was particularly impressed by a silver model of an old race car “twisting” and transforming into a new Audi. So I visited their website and was shocked by the quality and variety of their production, which is both artistic and (successfully) commercial at the same time. So when my Editor at 3DPI asked me to cover their newest products I was extremely happy to oblige and immediately contacted Jon Fidler, owner of the 3D design, 3D scanning and 3D modelling studio, and director Richard Goddard, to find out more about what they have been up to.
Their work brilliantly mixes commercial products with artistic visions, and that allows them to experiment with high level and high quality 3D printing technologies and materials. This mix is particularly evident in Jon’s latest work, a collaborative piece with artist Damilola Odusote exploring the influences and history of the Nike Air Force 1 sneaker (though not officially in collaboration with the sportswear manufacturer). Working on some concept ideas, Odusote created a detailed 2D piece in black pen which Fidler then developed into a 3D model.
Modla’s main expertise is digital 3D fabrication. This means they work closely with clients to guide them through the full design and manufacturing processes and offer them 3D design, 3D visualization and 3D scanning services, while outsourcing the actual 3D printing process, as well as other post-processes such as colouring, spray finishing and electropainting. Working with high level branding projects means Modla can collaborate with high level 3D printing services such as Digits2Widgets, a british company that specializes in 3D printing of artistic creations. “Their personal service,” – Richard told me – “is not only very welcome, but it’s also in-sync with how we like to treat our clients – on a close, consultancy basis.”
Modla recently worked officially with Nike for the Sneakerboots launch in London, with the Rosie Lee agency. For the installation they recreated and laser sintered in nylon a replica of some of London’s and Paris’ most famous landmarks while adding an original (Nike-inspired) twist. This included abstract takes on Big Ben, The Shard, the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe.
Some of their most recognizable recent works were done in collaboration with artists James McNabb and Dan Hillier. McNabb’s amazing Citysphere sculpture was replicated adding over 250 new intricate details, such as new skyscrapers around the central sphere, while Hillier’s painting “Nothing Matters” was converted to 3D and laser sintered to create 20 limited editions of the work, depicting a highly detailed three-eyed skull on a bed of flowers and feathers.
Modla has also worked with global construction company Saint-Gobain, producing scale models of buildings including Kings Cross Saint Pancras and George Best International Airport (Belfast). “Having launched last year, our client base is still very broad”, Goddard explains. “We tend to receive a lot of business from within the creative industries – such as fashion, architecture, branding and design – but we’re also currently working on projects within medical and educational organisations; two areas we’re very keen to expand further into.”
We can’t wait to see what they will do next and apparently we will not have to wait long as two new projects are in the works, but still under wraps. We will keep you posted.
