William Duffy

Statement

Within the past fifteen years, Duffy has been investigating 3D computational graphics to define and represent the underlying forms in nature. Through observation, developing a new series of intuitive mathematical sculptures, Duffy uses a hybrid of differential geometry and algebraic equations to define minimal and complex surfaces. Mathematica is one of the software programs Duffy uses to generate these 3D digital surfaces for parametric plots such as Calabi-Yau spaces. To generate mathematical sculptures he uses mainly implicit, parametric, equations in the form of source-code programming in Mathematica, Surf-X, K3DSurf, and an array of additional CAD-CAM software in order to prepare 3D files ultimately, to fabricate sculptures by using rapid prototyping and CNC-milling techniques. Duffy’s forward thinking belief that the new wave of computational 3D graphics in the arts and sciences will bridge the imminent field of information and nanotechnologies.

Artworks

Mathematica is the software program I used to generate this digital sculpture by way of a 3D parametric plot of Calabi-Yau space of an equation in the form of source-code programming. An array of additional CAD-CAM software was used in order to prepare the 3D file to fabricate this sculpture by using rapid prototyping techniques. This is the first in a new series of larger scale rapid prototyping of 3D computational graphics thus bridging fine arts and sciences.

“Anthrosphere” is the seminal link between the digital world and traditional techniques. The process of physical creation of Anthrosphere epitomizes contemporary manufacturing technologies such as direct metal rapid-prototyping and exemplifies the merging realms of information and nanotechnologies with fine art.