Cody Norman

This course is designed to be a fast-paced first step into the field of 3D CAD modeling, an arena where designers give shape to our daily experience of the world. If this is your first exposure to virtual 3D form development, you will find a flexible interface that facilitates a rapid learning curve from simple to complex. For those with prior CAD experience desiring a more intuitive, less restrictive creative experience, this course will provide the means to turn what you see in your mind and your sketches into exciting visual and precise physically accurate representations of your vision. Throughout the semester we will discuss historical and current events in product, fashion and architectural design. Typically, these shared conversations lead to discoveries that participants dig into and apply to assignments. A list of influential artists, designers and architects is provided along with suggested books and online references that enrich and add diversity and range to our discourse. Initially, the class works through a series of exercises and tutorials designed to bring familiarity and confidence to their experience with Rhino. Students will investigate methods for surfacing, modifying, rendering, and presenting ideas and concepts they create. As each tool and process becomes more familiar, new methods and strategies are introduced, and students are taught how to apply them to create accurate representative models of objects they design. In addition to gaining hands-on skills, we will explore form creation and the physical, cognitive, emotional, social, and cultural factors that play into the development of a successful new product.

Digital Projects is an experimental sculpture studio with an emphasis on CNC (computer numerical controlled) milling, routing and surfacing. Students will be introduced to Computer Aided Design (CAD) and Computer Aided Machining (CAM) to produce finished works in a range of materials including wood, foam, wax, aluminum and plastic. Experience with Rhino, Fusion360, Maya, Blender or another CAD package is useful but not necessary. Students will use a range of CNC output options in the Columbus Digital Fabrication Studio, the Materials Lab and elsewhere on and off the SAIC campus. Digital Projects will give students ample time to learn new digital subtractive techniques and experiment with how to integrate them into their own critical and conceptual framework.