Exploring Senses Presents: Digitalis - MK50 - 'People Place Digital Mutations'

Celebrating Milton Keynes' 50th Anniversary (2017)

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In 2017, Exploring Senses embarked on an innovative project titled Digitalis - MK50 'People Place Digital Mutations', in honor of the 50th anniversary of Milton Keynes. This ongoing research and development initiative aimed to blend traditional craft techniques with cutting-edge digital technology, resulting in unique and futuristic public art sculptures. The project highlighted the community's involvement, celebrating the people of Milton Keynes and envisioning the future of public art.

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Project Overview

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'People Place Digital Mutations' is a multi-step process that integrates hands-on craftsmanship with digital fabrication methods. Exploring Senses collaborated with local communities and organisations to create meaningful and futuristic public art. The project culminated in an exhibition at Milton Keynes Central Library, commissioned by Threshold TV.

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Four Creative Steps in 'People Place Digital Mutations':

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Step 1: Hands-On Making at Milton Keynes Central Public Library

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On July 15, 2017, Exploring Senses hosted a public workshop at Milton Keynes Central Library, where participants were invited to create wearable cardboard costumes. The workshop was organized by Threshold TV Studios and led by Exploring Senses artists Charlotte Allen, Sophie Holgate, David Allistone, and David Arnold. Participants' creations were then 3D scanned by David Allistone, capturing their designs digitally.

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Step 2: Digital Process for 3D Printing

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After the workshop, the digital transformation of the participants' creations took place at the Exploring Senses Maker Lab in Brighton. Artist David Allistone repaired and processed the 3D scans, converting them into 3D models using Minecraft. This stage involved preparing the models for 3D printing, a meticulous process that took approximately 2-3 hours per artwork.

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Step 3: 3D Printing the Sculptures

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Once the 3D models were finalized, they were printed using PLA filament, a biodegradable material made from cornstarch. The sculptures varied in size, ranging from 13cm to 21cm in height. Each piece took between 10-14 hours to print, with a resolution of 100 microns, ensuring fine detail and quality.

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Step 4: Exhibition at Milton Keynes Central Library

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On August 4, 2017, the Exploring Senses team returned to Milton Keynes Central Library to install the "People Place Digital Mutations" exhibition. The installation process was streamlined thanks to pre-designed exhibition layouts by Threshold TV Studios' Sophia Kyprianou and her production team. The dream team’s prior preparation ensured a smooth and efficient installation.

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Exhibition Highlights and Community Engagement

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The 'People Place Digital Mutations' exhibition was a celebration of creativity, technology, and community spirit. By involving local participants in the creation process and showcasing their work in a public exhibition, Exploring Senses successfully combined traditional art forms with modern digital techniques.

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The exhibition offered a glimpse into the future of public art, where community engagement and innovative technology come together to create something truly unique. Visitors to the Milton Keynes Central Library were able to see the entire creative process - from the initial hands-on workshop to the final 3D printed sculptures - making the exhibition not just a display of art, but a celebration of community and collaboration.

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Conclusion

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'People Place Digital Mutations' was more than just an art project; it was a testament to the power of community, creativity, and technology. By celebrating the 50th anniversary of Milton Keynes in such an innovative way, Exploring Senses demonstrated the potential for public art to evolve and adapt, reflecting the values and aspirations of the communities it serves. The project also set a precedent for future collaborations, where traditional and digital art forms can coexist and complement each other, paving the way for new forms of public engagement and artistic expression.