The 3D Printing Lab, established through the generous support of the Malan Trust, is a key facility within the School of Visual and Performing Arts. It plays a central role in advancing teaching, research, and innovation in digital fabrication, creative technologies, and the digital humanities.

Overview

The Lab supports a wide range of academic programmes, including undergraduate Bachelor of Visual Arts, Honours, and Master’s level study. It provides students and staff with access to contemporary 3D printing technologies, enabling the integration of traditional artistic practices with cutting-edge digital processes. As a result, the Lab contributes meaningfully to the School’s commitment to interdisciplinary learning, creative experimentation, and industry-relevant skills development.

Teaching and Learning

A core focus of the Lab is the development of hybrid workflows that bridge analogue and digital making. A flagship first-year project introduces students to a complete process of form-making across mediums:

• Sculpting original forms in clay
• Digitally capturing these forms using photogrammetry
• Producing accurate 3D-printed replicas

This workflow allows students to engage critically with material, form, and translation between physical and digital environments. It fosters an understanding of iterative design processes and expands creative possibilities through technological integration.

Research and Innovation

The 3D Print Lab actively supports staff research and experimental practice in digital fabrication. Current work includes material exploration, process innovation, and the development of new methodologies within artistic and interdisciplinary research contexts.

The introduction of high-resolution resin printing has significantly enhanced the Lab’s capabilities, enabling:

• Fine-detail prototyping
• Casting and mould-making tests
• Advanced artistic and research outputs

Industry and Collaborative Projects

The Lab also contributes to industry-aligned initiatives and external commissions. Notably, it has supported the development of large-scale sculptural work within the Department by producing precision prototypes and structural test components. These collaborations strengthen the connection between academic practice and professional creative industries.

A Growing Creative Hub

As demand for the Lab continues to grow, it is evolving into a dynamic hub for innovation, collaboration, and knowledge production. Ongoing evaluation ensures that the facility remains responsive to emerging technologies and aligned with global developments in digital fabrication and the arts.