This was a long-term project for my Advanced 3D Modeling class, throughout my spring 2016 semester at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. Each vessel was sculpted from scratch (with a few downloaded models added in), and took around two days to perfect.
The first step of my process for creating each of my wares was to visit the Art Institute of Chicago, often the European Decorative Arts Section. Here I did extensive research, took many photos, and gathered inspiration.
Photos taken at the Art Institute of Chicago. Eleanor Schichtel 2016.
Next I would spend a limited amount of time–often no longer than 3 days–creating a vessel in 3D using Autodesk Maya and zBrush. I would strive to utilize the same design sensibilities as these historical artifacts that the Art Institute values so highly, while throwing in strange and modern references, like a dinosaur or a drinking straw. As a result, the objects I created are in some ways like hacks of the original objects: by creating my own luxury objects, heirlooms, and wares, I was able to take ownership of such untouchable artifacts. In this way, I devalued the objects in the Art Institute by recreating them very quickly and cheaply. However, like the objects on display in the Art Institute, the objects I created to imitate them are similarly untouchable, since they are digital and therefore intangible.
Chafing Dish, Eleanor Schichtel, 2016.
Ewer, Eleanor Schichtel, 2016.
Margarita Challice, Eleanor Schichtel, 2016.
Teapot, Eleanor Schichtel, 2016
Nautilus Cup, Eleanor Schichtel, 2016.
Candlestick Holder, Eleanor Schichtel, 2016.
Song credit: "Trio Sonata in G major: III. Allegro moderato" Composed by J.S. Bach, Performed by Empire Brass, "Royal Brass: Brass Music From The Renaissance & Baroque"
