creative journal

Journal 3/2/25 This the first entry of this creative journal. I will add to it as I think my way into this reseach and explore ideas. It is not the start of this project but it is a beginning. As such it will be disjoined and rambling. A collection of thoughts and problem solving that jumps from theory and academic reading, artworks I am inspired by, and the materials and technology I am using. I am learning how to use this technology as I create the sculptures. The development is driven by the ideas I am exploring and the technology I am learning how to use. It’s potential and limitations inspiring and directing what can be created. Layered, collaged 3d forms inspired by growth and life forms. Printed in pla Embedding electronics that sense, detect, feel interactions with human participants. Responding to the complexity of life and illuminating the lie of human exceptionalism. The first sculpture “Sensitive growth” has proximity sensors that produce a trigger and echo reading. The sculpture I have been working on the last few days will be connected to a playtronica midi synthesiser. I am experimenting with printing with conductive pla. When connected to the playtronica, the participant touches the conductive elements and a programmed sound is produced. These sounds can be recorded from a variety of sources, natural, like plant stems breaking, grass rustling, rocks tapping on each other, waves, or dripping water, voices, bird calls. They can be synthesised sounds, like musical instruments. The challenge is creating a connected form that feels intergrated. That includes, but does not conceal its mechanical elements. Modeling and creating a sculpture that encourages curiosity and touch. Conductive pla is $45 for 200 grams. Conductive filament is expensive, so requires careful use. This experimentation will begin with creating elements of the design that are conductive and connected to the playtronica. Also a form that the human participant touches or holds so as to complete the circuit. The participant is part of the artworks electrical circuit. Managing 3d scans of natural forms and 3d modeled forms in auto desk fusion 360 is its own steep learning curve. Managing the files that can then be printed on printing bed of 22x 22x 22 cm. Anthything larger than that needs to be made in sections. Pla is a good material, at $39 a kilogram it is quite affordable as an art making and prototyping material. It needs to be managed, stored and disposed of appropriately. Industrial composting. Conductive pla is $45 for 200 grams. Conductive filament is expensive, so requires careful use. Artworks that I sell, or supply for others will be printed in PHA, which can biodegrade in any environment including garden composting and the marine environment. It will not be a burden on the environment. It is fairly expensive at $97.75 for 750 grams and imported from the Netherlands so carries a burden of carbon miles.