1. What major historical point does your project make?

I am interested in intellectual property and its dispersion. The idea of sharing information with the masses first emerged in the Enlightenment era, and now in the Information age, we have an extraordinary ability to continue this ambition. Specifically, I see 3D printing as an area of interest because of its potential to create as well as its potential to be accessible by the layperson. As 3D printers are becoming cheaper, they are increasingly easy to access; there are also increasing databases of free models, which can be printed by anyone with an internet connection.

2. How do you intend to express your point visually?

Ideally, I would like to have a 3D printed model of the Tessé room on a smaller scale. The triumph in this would be an example of how scholars can use emerging popular technology, as well as provide a wider audience a way to engage with the tactility of the subject. Additionally, 3D printing can provide a side by side comparison of the current and original Tessé rooms. One might question why a printed model of the room is necessary, but I feel the that the tactile component, and the ability to move objects around in real space is critically important; it brings nebulous clouds of information into the physical plane. I makes scholarship tangible.

I also want to look at the ways contemporary museums are utilizing other emerging technologies to make esoteric subjects more accessible (e.g. the wallpaper room at the Cooper Hewitt). In a world where museum holdings are increasingly easy to view in one’s own home, it’s interesting to consider how the museum stays relevant and exciting. In my mind, the museum may one day become not a space to curate objects, but a space to curate experience.

3. What digital means do you intend to use?

I do not know if it is possible for us to obtain a printable 3D model of the Tessé room with the time and skills available to us, but it would be simple to create 3D printable floor plans with any CAD program. From there it would be possible to insert 3D printed models of the furniture (some of which I know my classmates are planning to construct).

Also, after doing additional research into technologies adopted by other museums, I may find additional digital means.