Richard Hooper

Liverpool Hope University College

Infinity

Foam and CAD models

Infinity

Sculpture

The sculpture depicted is the result of the development of my work from traditional analogue manufacturing methodologies involving mechanised processes such as lathe turning, milling and sanding along with manual methodologies ie. carving to digitally based CAD/CAM methodologies. This shift has been brought about due to the aesthetic development in my own work from a largely geometric formal language to a more biomorphic idiom. This shift has necessitated the exploration of digital procedures in order to be able to exert formal control over the construction of the objects since digital methodologies enable precise control to be exercised over three axes on non-uniform three-dimensional shapes.

Slide 1 shows the authors rigid foam prototype of Infinity, a form with complex, non rational, geometries. Slides 2-3 show the CAD model of the form generated by Hugo Macpherson in collaboration with the author using Rhino CAD software. Slides 4-5 show the finished form produced in collaboration with an industrial partner using Delcam toolpath software running a Corea 5 axis milling machine. The form demanded a two stage production methodology requiring inverting after stage one to enable the form to be machined from both sides. Even having been machined from two sides, the form required considerable hand finishing as a result of complex undercuts preventing complete access by the CNC (Computer Numerically Controlled) machinery. The sculpture, based on the mathematical symbol for infinity, is in laminated birch ply (dimensions 350mmx150mmx100mm).

Richard was born in Liss, Hampshire and spent the early part of his life in Sussex and Devon. His background is in Design and Education and he now lives and works in Liverpool lecturing at Liverpool Hope University College in three dimensional design. His research interests lie in the integration of digital technologies in the production of Applied Art/Sculpture and the changing relationship between imagination, design, making on the one hand and the character, authorship, perception and reception of the made object on the other.