3D printing today is expensive, even for consumers. Does this mean only the rich can make use of 3D printing? We don’t think so.
One initiative we’ve been watching is Bizzie Bodies in London, where founder Emilie Mendy has been trying to put together a 3D printing lab for underprivileged children. The goal of the project is:
Bizzie Bodies is a charity organisation that works with 6-12 year old children who would otherwise have minimal access to creative learning outside of their school education. The organisation aims to facilitate social inclusion in multi-cultural societies through participative French and creative workshops.
We spoke to Mendy to find out more about the project.
Fabbaloo: What is the timeline for further developments?
Emilie Mendy: I am now looking to get some 3D printers with the package (software, guarantee and more) to be able to start working with the children from January as I don’t have enough budget to buy some, I will then run an annual program during the year and a sort of free little hub during holidays to give the access to the children.
Fabbaloo: What has been done so far? Have children been exposed to the tech yet?
Emilie Mendy: Children haven’t been exposed yet as I am struggling to get the printers and also the location will be ready in January so I am developing the marketing at the moment.
Fabbaloo: How will children be selected for the program?
Emilie Mendy: Anyone is welcome and might be charged for the classes as the company needs to generates some income to reinvest in the company but the company will have subsidised places as it is a community interest company.
Fabbaloo: What is the larger goal of the project?
Emilie Mendy: I want to reach a large amount of kids wherever and also I am trying to get diverse 3D equipment for the kids to really have access to new tech, like the google glasses for example some computers and also I would like them to learn about animation, visual effects and composition. Hopefully, I wish to become a new tech mini hub accessible for the children in the local area and expand.
We’re wondering if there are any folks in the London area who happen to have surplus 3D printing gear they might wish to donate to this project. If you can help, please give Emilie a shout.
Via Bizzie Bodies
