Two contrasting exhibitions open in Pasadena California this month: a historical examination of “The Curious World of Patent Models”, and the more contemporary “Future of Objects”. The former looks at physical models constructed for patent application, as was the custom before 1880. Fortunately for inventors, this is no longer a requirement – but imagine if we still had to present physical models built to apply for a patent! The exhibition covers such items as an electric motor, paper cutting machine and the like. Contrasting the historical view is the smaller “Future of Objects” exhibition, in which various 3D printed objects created by local fabbing companies are on display.
The best part of the joint exhibition:
To bring the two exhibits closer together, Nowlin commissioned a 3D printed replica of an improved boot patent model from the 1800s. The two are displayed side-by-side, companions spanning the past and future.
The exhibitions can be seen at the Alyce de Roulet Williamson Gallery, Art Center College of Design in Pasadena until August 15th.
