Puffy Zhao
MFA in Metalsmithing and Jewelry Design
Email: pufzhao@indiana.edu
Website: www.puffyzhao.com
3D Printed and Enameled Ring Series
This body of work consists of twenty 3D printed, fabricated, and enameled sculptural rings inspired by microscopic structures of living forms. The idea that how creatures are perceived by human eyes could be entirely different from the imagery revealed by a microscope makes me ponder whether I am able to capture the reality of anything merely through visual observation. I am intrigued and inspired by the process of merging multiple mediums, which enables me to express my various identities, and helps me visualize the growth of a newborn from an ambiguous seed to a matured form. My work communicates the juxtaposition of 3D printed components and enameled components. The hand-drawing process assists me in modeling three-dimensional objects using Rhinoceros, a 3D modeling software that can build up volumetric forms through assigned points, lines, and surfaces. The completed enameled components are combined with the 3D printed components through sewing, tension fitting, riveting, or applying creatively designed mechanisms.