The thesis explores the use of modern 3D technologies to enhance accessibility to art, with a focus on creating a tactile reproduction of an artistic portrait, tailored for blind and visually impaired individuals. Art is inherently a visual medium, which often excludes people with visual impairments from direct experience with artworks. In collaboration with the National Gallery, the portrait of the Young Nun was selected and converted into a three-dimensional model accessible through touch.
The digital modeling was done using Blender, employing advanced methods such as digital sculpting, mesh construction, and fabric simulation. The model was then prepared for 3D printing while considering technical constraints such as wall thickness, stability, and model orientation. The physical reproduction was produced using thermoplastic extrusion technology on a Creality K1 Max printer, utilizing polylactic acid (PLA) filament. Based on a test print, an error analysis was performed, allowing optimization of the final digital model and subsequent printing of the tactile 3D reproduction.
The final result is a stable and functional tactile 3D reproduction of the artwork, demonstrating that 3D technology can significantly contribute to art accessibility. The project proves that with thoughtful use of digital tools, it is possible to create a tangible artistic experience that transcends traditional visual boundaries and includes individuals with visual impairments.
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