Austria-based Designer Philipp Aduatz creates limited-edition functional objects that are highly sculptural in nature. Working with innovative materials and fabrication technologies, Aduatz is very much influenced by scientific matters such as chemistry, physics and material technologies. His process combines traditional craft concepts and techniques with cutting-edge implements such as 3D printing, 3D laser scanning, CNC milling, and Rapid Prototyping. Experimenting with different materials and their behavior is an important part of his research at the intersection of design and sculpture. Greatly influenced by sculptors such as Constantin Brancusi and Tony Cragg, the designer aims to develop a distinct language of form in each of his pieces, encouraging a new discourse between the object and its user or viewer.
Can you describe the initial inspiration behind combining traditional craft techniques with advanced technologies such as 3D printing and CNC milling in your design process?
Since my student days, my deepest passions have intersected within the realms of both the arts, particularly sculpture, and the natural sciences. This dual fascination has driven me to explore the confluence of these disciplines, seeking innovative ways to bridge the gap between them.
Craftsmanship lies at the heart of sculpture, where the mastery of materials and techniques transforms abstract ideas into tangible forms. Simultaneously, my intrigue in the natural sciences has propelled me toward understanding the fundamental principles governing our world and its materials. Today, I find myself positioned at the dynamic interface between artistry and scientific inquiry. Through my work, I endeavor to explore the connections between these seemingly disparate realms. Utilizing cutting-edge fabrication technologies like 3D printing and CNC milling, I aim to push the boundaries of traditional craftsmanship and scientific exploration.
My journey is one of continual discovery, as I seek to uncover novel intersections between art and science. By integrating modern fabrication techniques with the timeless principles of sculpture and material science, I strive to not only create visually captivating works but also to provoke thought and inspire dialogue about the interconnections of these disciplines.
How do you choose the materials you work with, and what role does the experimentation with their behavior play in the development of your functional objects?
Material selection is often viewed as a necessity in the design process, driven by specific demands or requirements. However, in an experimental approach, the material or technology may be chosen initially, and then explored and adapted intuitively as the process unfolds.
Experimentation serves as a cornerstone of the design process, providing designers with a platform to explore the depth of materials and their behaviors more intuitively. For me, embracing experimentation is not only a choice but a fundamental aspect of my creative journey.
There are instances where I start on the creation of new objects without a clear vision of their final form. One notable example is my project titled "Reversed Process Furniture." Here, I embarked on a mission to reimagine and reinvent my approach to designing objects by restructuring the conventional order of the design stages. Rather than adhering to a predefined blueprint, I embraced a fluid and exploratory process. The essence of this endeavor was to cultivate objects with a distinctive sculptural character through an experimental design approach. By relinquishing the constraints of traditional methodologies, I sought to liberate my creativity and allow unforeseen discoveries to shape the trajectory of my work.
Through this unconventional journey, I discovered the inherent beauty in embracing uncertainty and relinquishing control. Each step of the process became an opportunity for discovery, as I navigated through uncharted territories of form, function, and materiality.
Could you elaborate on how scientific disciplines like chemistry, physics, and material technologies influence the aesthetics and functionality of your designs?
From a young age, I've been drawn to the captivating beauty inherent in science. The complexity of chemical structures and the omnipresent physical forces that govern their interactions have always held a profound fascination for me. As a designer, I find myself constantly inspired by these natural phenomena, which serve as a source of aesthetic inspiration.
To me, beauty goes beyond just appearances; it's about how things function and serve a purpose. Looking at shapes and forms, I've learned to appreciate the elegant design that blends both form and function seamlessly. Exploring materials and technology has shifted my perspective on the world. Each material has its own unique qualities, waiting to be utilized by designers. Whether it's the flexibility of metals, the clarity of glass, or the adaptability of polymers, each material showcases human innovation.
Moreover, technology offers exciting possibilities for design. From advanced fabrication methods like 3D printing to cutting-edge materials developed at the nanoscale, the intersection of science and technology opens up endless creative opportunities.
In essence, my journey as a designer is driven by a deep appreciation for the aesthetics of science. By combining form, function, materials, and technology, I aim to create designs that not only catch the eye but also enhance the human experience. This fusion of art and science fuels my passion for pushing creative boundaries and finding meaningful design solutions.
In your research at the intersection of design and sculpture, how do you navigate the balance between creating objects that are both functional and highly sculptural?
Throughout my educational journey, I've had the privilege of gaining a diverse set of skills that deeply shape how I approach design. Initially trained as an Industrial Designer, I immersed myself in projects that taught me the fundamental rules behind creating industrial objects. These experiences gave me a solid grasp of design principles, which I continue to apply diligently in both my experimental and sculptural work.
Although my background is in industrial design, my love for sculpture has always been a driving force. As I delved into my studies, I found myself increasingly drawn to the expressive language of form used by sculptors. The ability to play with space, volume, and texture to evoke emotions resonated strongly with me, sparking a deep desire to explore where design and sculpture intersect.
At the core of my practice is the integration of modern fabrication technologies. While rooted in tradition, I embrace innovative techniques like 3D printing and CNC machining to expand the horizons of what's achievable. These tools not only offer me greater precision and flexibility but also inspire me to experiment and explore new avenues.
In essence, my journey as a designer is an ongoing pursuit of balance, harmony, and innovation. By merging the timeless principles of industrial design with the expressive possibilities of sculpture, I aim to create objects that go beyond mere functionality, resonating deeply on an emotional and aesthetic level. It's this pursuit of creative fusion that drives my passion and compels me to continually push the boundaries of design.
Reflecting on the influence of sculptors such as Constantin Brancusi and Tony Cragg, how do you see their legacies informing the language of form in your work?
The mastery of sculptors like Brancusi, Cragg, and Serra has always fascinated me, drawing me into a world of precision, elegance, and harmony that leaves a lasting impression on my artistic sensibilities.
During my studies in Industrial Design, I embarked on a journey of self-improvement through life drawing. Initially challenged by capturing form and proportion, I was motivated to refine my skills and deepen my understanding of shapes.
Through extensive study of the human body's proportions, I developed a keen sensitivity to form and proportion. I realized that proportions are not just technical details but the very essence of aesthetic expression, serving as a universal language transcending cultural boundaries.
Inspired by renowned sculptors, I delved into aesthetics, seeking to understand the secrets behind their timeless creations. This exploration deepened my appreciation for the beauty of proportion and its crucial role in shaping our perception of the world. In essence, my journey as a designer has been enriched by studying the masters of sculpture. By embracing the principles of proportion and harmony, I've honed my craft and gained a deeper understanding of design.
Can you discuss a specific project where the integration of digital fabrication technologies significantly impacted the final outcome, both in terms of design and materiality?
Allow me to introduce my first 3D-printed limited edition design piece: The 'Digital Chaiselongue'. I collaborated with the Austrian start-up company incremental3d to bring this piece to life. This innovative furniture seamlessly integrates my sculptural design language with incremental3d's cutting-edge digital fabrication technology. Leveraging their advanced concrete 3D printing technology, we achieved intricate geometries in record time.
The concept behind the Digital Chaiselongue was to showcase the potential of this new technology for creating complex, freeform designs in furniture. Additionally, it aimed to highlight the synergy between my experimental and scientific approach to design and incremental3d's innovative technology.
The process involved 3D printing a concrete base plate followed by printing the entire geometry onto it in less than an hour. Carbon fibers were strategically inserted to enhance tensile strength, and the seating area was meticulously polished by hand to demonstrate the harmonious coexistence of craftsmanship and digital fabrication.
Incremental3d, founded in September 2017 by Georg Grasser, Johannes Ladinig, and Lukas Härtenberger, has been at the forefront of concrete printing research. Their technology, which utilizes a six-axis robot, allows for the rapid printing of fine and detailed freeform geometries with high resolution, akin to established polymer 3D printing technologies. This groundbreaking approach eliminates the need for molds or support structures, redefining the freedom of form in concrete printing.
How do you envision the future of design with the ongoing advancements in fabrication technologies, and how do you plan to integrate these into your work?
As we step further into the digital age, modern fabrication technologies, especially digital tools, are becoming essential for designers and creators. These innovative tools promise to transform the creative process, granting individuals unprecedented efficiency and the ability to explore new ideas and concepts.
One of the most exciting aspects of these technologies is their potential to address environmental challenges. By facilitating more sustainable production methods and reducing waste, digital fabrication offers a path toward a greener future. As a designer, I understand the importance of integrating ecological considerations into my work, and I see digital tools as crucial for achieving this.
Looking ahead, I'm committed to incorporating these cutting-edge tools into my practice to push the boundaries of design and art. By leveraging digital fabrication technologies, I aim to create fresh and inventive pieces that challenge traditional ideas of form, function, and beauty. Whether it's experimenting with additive manufacturing, CNC machining, or generative design algorithms, I see endless opportunities for innovation and creativity in the digital future.
Ultimately, my aim is not only to produce visually stunning artworks but also to contribute to a broader conversation about the role of technology in shaping our world. By embracing these tools and pushing the limits of what's possible, I hope to inspire others to reconsider their approach to design and to imagine a future where creativity knows no bounds.
How do you see your role as a designer in contributing to the broader conversation on the relationship between art, design, and technology in contemporary society?
In contemporary society, the relationship between art, design, and technology is dynamic and intertwined, shaping the way we perceive and interact with the world around us. As a designer, I view my role as central to enriching this discourse by bridging the gap between these disciplines and harnessing the power of technology to drive creativity and innovation forward.
Inspired by the work of esteemed artists and sculptors, I endeavor to infuse my designs with aesthetic elegance and harmony. Yet, I also recognize the transformative potential of modern fabrication technologies like 3D printing and CNC machining in realizing these artistic visions. By integrating these tools into my practice, I aim to showcase how traditional craftsmanship and digital technologies can seamlessly coexist, resulting in works that are both visually captivating and technically groundbreaking.
Ultimately, through my work, I aim to provoke thought, inspire creativity, and spark conversations about the evolving relationship between art, design, and technology. By pushing the boundaries of possibility and challenging established norms, I aspire to play a meaningful role in shaping the future of creative expression and innovation in our society.
