3D Printing the Smithsonian

Ancient art meets the future at the Hermitage this fall.

Five years ago, if you wanted to see objects from the Smithsonian’s Freer Gallery of Art, you were required to make the trek to Washington DC. Now, through the innovative processes of 3D scanning and printing, treasured objects like the Freer’s can be experienced and appreciated around the world.

We’ve teamed up with the staff at the Freer|Sackler to 3D scan and print ten objects from their collection that relate to the Hermitage’s collection of Asian art. From a lifesize Cosmic Buddha sculpture, to a Fushimi doll of Hotei, to a funerary relief bust from Syria, you’re invited to see (and touch) all ten.

You’ll also discover the various ways 3D printing has radically reshaped artmaking and museum practices. From conservation, to fashion, to new ways of making, we highlight some of our favorite 3D printed artworks and applications. Hear from artist and ODU Professor Alison Stinely and see how she brings her ideas to life with 3D printing, and view 3D printed objects from five other Norfolk museums.

Finally, visit our MakerLab to learn about 3D printing firsthand! We’ve partnered with our friends at the new Slover Maker Studio to offer weekly demos every Saturday at noon. Stop by to participate and learn more about 3D printing and all of the local resources available to you.

Credit: Exhibition overview from museum website