This week’s selection is the Coronavirus model by noted 3D artist Joshua Harker.
Harker has been here before, as we interviewed him five years ago to find out his thoughts on 3D in art. Harker is perhaps best known for his groundbreaking “Crania Anatomica Filigree” 3D print, launched on Kickstarter way back in 2011. This filigreed skull provided immensely popular and raised some US$77K, a large figure at the time for a 3D print. Of course, back then 3D printing as an art medium was a bit unique.
In 2013 I spotted a Crania Anatomica Filigree print on display in a NYC FAO Schwarz toy store.
Harker has been quiet in 3D in recent years, explaining a personal transition in a newsletter post last year:
“Last 2 years have been dedicated to relocating, refocusing, and building a new studio. After 25 years in Chicago and a series of exceptionally trying events this proved to be a major undertaking, hence my extended radio silence. Move has been made and studio is nearly finished. I’m now in Ann Arbor, Michigan.”
But suddenly he’s back with a very appropriate design: the infamous Coronavirus, the cause of all our woes lately.
Harker’s design features the protein spikes on the exterior of the virus, which are the mechanical features used to attach to living cells prior to infection. It’s a very unique design and could be an interesting ice-breaker at parties… if there were parties.
Harker doesn’t 3D print these himself, but instead uses a 3D print service to produce them in, presumably, SLS-3D printed nylon, his typical material. The item is 63mm wide, so it fits well in your hand. BUT DON’T PASS IT AROUND WITHOUT DISINFECTING IT!
This print is priced at US$100, and part of the proceeds will be donated to charity. Harker explains:
“My version of the little bastard. 33% of cost go to manufacturing in NYC, 33% to support volunteer relief efforts in greater Detroit/Ann Arbor, MI area, 33% to help support my family through this.”
All worthy causes.
Via Joshua Harker
