1. California│Stratasys (www.stratasys.com), a company specializing in 3D printing, teamed with the Stan Winston School of Character Arts, Legacy Effects, Condé Nast Entertainment, and Wired to create a 14-foot tall creature for Comic-Con International 2014 in San Diego. More than one third of the giant creature was 3D printed, including the chest armor, shoulders, arms, and fingers, with parts as large as 36 x 24 x 36 inches. The 3D printed parts were created using ABS-M30 thermoplastic material via a variety of Stratasys’ 3D printers, including its Fortus 900mc. The creature also integrates video and sensor technologies for an interactive element.
2. South Carolina│ Lowcountry Wraps (www.lowcountrywraps.com) wrapped a modified Chrysler Plymouth Duster using Oracal 970RA Premium Wrapping Cast Film with RapidAir Technology. The body of the car was wrapped in 406 violet metallic and the bumpers were wrapped in a chrome color. The headlights, taillights, and markers were also wrapped, but the hood was left as-is because it would likely come in contact with alcohol fuel, which could result in discoloration.
3. Maryland │ The Washington County Museum of Fine Arts in Hagerstown is going digital with its addition of touch-screen signage used in the front lobby and in one of its galleries. The dynamic signage was initially used to provide general visitor information, but now it shares things like the museum floor plan, info on ongoing exhibits and programs, photographs of events past and present, and even the current weather status – all available by the touch of a hand.
4. Arizona│ BP Graphics (www.bp-graphics.com) has teamed with Cornerstone Christian Fellowship Church to create a billboard highlighting a celebrity meet-and-greet. 10 attendees chosen from eight church services will get the chance to meet Sean Lowe, “Dancing with the Stars” contestant and the only one out of ABC’s 17 “Bachelors” to actually marry the woman he proposed to on the finale. The billboard urges passerby to logon to www.meetseanlowe.com and post the hashtag “#csseanlowe” onto their social media sites.
5. Japan│ 3D print fashion label Mud Snail has been supporting Japanese fashion brands such as Anrealage and Keisuke Kanda by using 3D printing for brand exhibitions, installations, and collections. Now, Mud Snail is announcing its own debut collection of 3D printed pumps and wedges. The heels are available in gingham or paisley. Prices range from $245 to $362.