
Agdam is a fascinating town in Azerbaijan with a rich history and it is part of a disputed region of Nagorno-Karabakh. Agdam is now a ghost town, abandoned as a result of an American-Azerbaijan. The settlement of Agdam was 26 kilometers (16 miles) from the region’s capital, Stepanakert (Khankendi). During its time as part of the USSR, the population continuously increased, and by 1991, 32,900 people resided there.
Why Agdam?
Azerbaijani Government wants to rebuild/restore the Agdam area. Therefore, the city’s master plant was required, according to which eight adjacent villages will be combined with Agdam. It will be rebuilt as a green energy zone and will be based on a “Smart City” idea. There will be a big green belt covering 125 hectares, as well as an artificial lake, canals, and bridges, within the city. Motorways, pedestrian, and bike routes will be available throughout the city, and public transportation will be powered by electricity.
What was Proto21 role in the project?
We did what we always do best, “3D Printing”. In simple words we 3D printed Agdam, “The ghost town” of Azerbaijan. You must be wondering how? We received detailed footage recorded with the help of a drone. The footage covered the majority of the area the footage which gave us a better understanding of structures, terrains, and some foliage of the ruins. With the help of Google Earth with the combination of drone footage, our talented designers were able to replicate the entire area in 3D. Initially, we 3D printed small structures of ruins and buildings using different 3D printing technologies such as HP Multi Jet Fusion, SLA, and FDM 3D printing. (Refer to the image below)
Accuracy is always a key element of every scale model, and this scale model project is no different than the rest. With the help of Google Earth, Google Maps, and advanced 3d software we accurately measured the main and surrounding areas to scale it down to 1: 750. We understand our clients’ requirements and expectations and our scale modelers use their expert craftsmanship, along with different 3D printing technologies, CNC, Laser cutting, 3D modeling, and landscape design. The model size was 2.5m x 3m and printed in tiles. Every detail in the scale model was emphasized to make it look as realistic as possible.
The whole project was completed in just 7 weeks starting from the design to production and custom paint job. We produced the scale model in tiles which were carefully shipped to Azerbaijan and later it was assembled there. With the help of 3D Printing technologies and traditional scale modeling methods, we made extremely detailed precise to scale, state-of-the-art models. Only Proto21 can bring out great quality work in such a short lead time in the MENA region because of our in-house capabilities and talented multi-disciplinary team. We have a wide variety of materials to pick from, which fits you the most. Being professionals in engineering, medical, architectural designs, and scale modeling, we target an audience for this online 3D printing business. We are committed to providing top-notch and high-end manufacturing services to our customers. We currently provide the most diverse range of 3D printing service choices in Dubai, UAE. To reach out us out please contact us via one of the phone numbers provided below or us your queries through the website, email, or any social media platforms provided below:
Email: info@proto21.ae
WhatsApp: +971 52 104 9913
Office: +971 4 235 0902
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Advantages of 3D Printing Sculptures
Design Freedom:
Artists today have the freedom to think beyond traditional boundaries by embracing 3D printing as their creative tool. This technology empowers them to explore complex geometries and push the limits of design, unlocking possibilities that were once unimaginable.
Precision and Complexity
3D printing technology presents a significant advantage through its capacity to fabricate highly intricate designs that would be exceptionally challenging through manual methods. Structures characterized by complex geometry, hollow forms, and finely detailed textures can be realized with reduced operational input.
Speed and Efficiency
Traditional sculpting methods are often time-intensive, requiring several weeks or months for completion. Conversely, 3D printing technology substantially accelerates the creation process, enabling artists to rapidly prototype and refine their designs prior to finalizing the printed sculpture.
Cost-Effectiveness
3D printing is a cost-effective alternative to traditional sculpting, which often involves expensive materials and generates a lot of waste. 3D printing minimizes waste by only using the necessary material, applied layer by layer.
Accessibility for Artists
The accessibility of cost-effective desktop 3D printers has democratized the creation of sculptures, enabling independent artists who previously lacked access to expensive sculpting tools to produce impressive works. This technological advancement has provided emerging artists with novel opportunities for exploration.
Challenges and Limitations of 3D Printed Sculpture
Material Constraints
Despite these benefits, limitations persist regarding 3D printing materials. Certain materials exhibit fragility, and the replication of natural textures found in traditional materials such as marble or wood remains a challenge..
Ethical Concerns in Art and Technology
There’s an ongoing debate about whether 3D printed sculptures are "authentic" art. Since artists can replicate designs effortlessly, some argue that it devalues the uniqueness of sculptures.
Technical Learning Curve
Unlike traditional sculpting, 3D printing requires knowledge of digital modeling, software, and printer calibration, making it a steep learning curve for traditional artists.
The Future of 3D Printing in Sculpture
As technology advances, 3D printing will become even more integrated into the art world. Future innovations may include AI-assisted design, self-assembling sculptures, and even bio-printing using organic materials.
Conclusion
3D printing is not replacing traditional sculpture; rather, it is enhancing it. By merging the past with the future, this technology is opening up new creative possibilities while challenging the definition of art itself. Whether you see it as a tool or an art form, one thing is certain, 3D printing is revolutionizing modern sculpture in ways we never imagined.