3D printers have already provided a number of navigational tools for blind people as well as art copies and replicas of objects with sentimental value. The two come together in a Madrid gallery where blind visitors can feel famous artwork. An exhibition called Touching the Prado at the Museo Nacional Del Prado consists of six 3D printed replicas of masterpiece paintings, specifically designed for the visually impaired to touch.
Created by Spanish printing studio Estudios Durero, the exhibition of art copies is on display until June 28, 2015. The replicas were made using a technique the studio invented called Didu. The printers pick textures and volumes in a 40 hours-long process that will ultimately guide the blind's hands over the painting. After the textures are printed first, a chemical adds volume to the image before the original picture is printed on top.
Blind-Guiding Museum Exhibitions
Touch the Prado Lets the Visually Impaired Feel Art Copies
Trend Themes
1. 3D Printed Replicas - The ability to create 3D printed replicas of artwork and objects presents a disruptive innovation opportunity for the art world and museums.
2. Tactile Art Exhibitions - Creating exhibitions specifically designed for the visually impaired to experience art through touch presents a disruptive innovation opportunity for the art world and museum industry.
3. Novel Uses of 3D Printing - Exploring novel uses of 3D printing technology, such as creating tactile art replicas, presents a disruptive innovation opportunity for the 3D printing industry.
Industry Implications
1. Art - Creating exhibitions specifically designed for the visually impaired presents a disruptive innovation opportunity for the art industry to become more inclusive and accessible.
2. Museums - Developing tactile art exhibitions and utilizing 3D printing technology to create replicas presents a disruptive innovation opportunity for the museum industry to offer a more immersive and inclusive experience to visitors.
3. 3D Printing - Exploring novel uses of 3D printing technology, such as creating tactile art replicas, presents a disruptive innovation opportunity for the 3D printing industry to expand its applications beyond traditional manufacturing and prototyping.