3D printing is a new and upcoming technology. Many professions can utilize 3D printing technology; even set designers have found 3D printers to help with model making. In order for JMU to stay competitive with other theatre major programs at other schools, they need to keep up to date with the rising technology of 3D printing.
Kacie Hultgren, a Broadway set designer, is already applying this technology in her work. Kacie talks about and promotes the use of a Markerbot printer for set designers. The Markerbot printers help Kacie make scale models efficiently and cost effectively so that others can visualize her designs. The following video demonstrates Kacie’s use of 3D printing in the set design industry.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oG09-jWyc4U
Kacie’s work is also mentioned in an article on Stage Directions where they discuss how she has “solved tricky design problems, like spiral staircases or complex forced perspective, using 3D CAD. Once the CAD drawing is complete, making a model piece is simply a matter of hitting “print.” “
For more in-depth information on 3D printed set designs and models, read this article from Colin Winslow Designs. One of the benefits the article discusses is the capability to print the same design multiple times. This is method is low cost and saves time for set designers. The don’t have to spend time making a model by hand or going to a third party to have the model made for them, because they can print it themselves.
As we have read already, 3D printing can be used to print even the most detailed objects. The following videos show the use of 3D printing in architecture. Architecture can go hand in hand with set design, the only difference is the that architects design a solid structure, where set designers have design individual solid pieces that are constantly moving around the stage. While there are differences between these two industries, they can learn from each other and benefit from this new technology.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MPZya4L2NjE
The following video shows the transformation from the design to finished model with 3D printing.
This video explains how the 3D printer is present in the professional world and it’s effects on the industry. It is mentioned that the cost of one 3D printer was the cost of a model maker to make the same design. You can now buy a printer that can make multiple set designs for the same cost as one model made by a professional.
The benefits of 3D printing in the classroom have already showed great promise in the UK. Students have been provided 3D printers and teachers have already noticed increase in creativity and productivity in their students.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/education/educationnews/10389489/3D-printers-to-be-introduced-into-the-classroom.html
This article from 3D Printing Industry shows how children are interested form a young age about 3D printing. After considering all the benefits to both set design industry and the educational promises, 3D printing seems to be the next logical step for the JMU theatre’s department. Classes in this department could easily make 3D printing a part of their curriculum. Students need to stay competitive in the market and by being trained with this new technology this can give them the upper hand.
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