Mini Dahlias is an experience in co-creation that is designed to exist in both the digital and physical realms. Each iteration has an embedded blueprint that can be exported and used to create a 3.5" x 2.0" pocket sculpture from 14 layers of laser cut alpha-cellulose mat board.

PLEASE NOTE: There was an unexpected issue with the code that only appears on minted iterations which affected the ability to export blueprints and use other post-rendering shortcut keys. You can export and enable those shortcuts using your iteration hash at the following url: https://minidahlias.shawnkemp.art/?fxhash=

Mini Dahlias is part of a larger series that explores the use of generative scripts to build a multi-layered sculpture. Each layer is drawn independently beginning with a frame and then adding and subtracting shapes in ways that respect the physical realities of the materials ability to be cut and hold together. Future versions of this project will increase in size and complexity.

The making of a pocket sculpture

I'll be adding to this article and flushing out the steps with more details and information over time as I capture the process while fulfilling the first few redemptions.

The process of transforming a minted iteration into a physical pocket sculpture requires a number of steps and careful attention to detail.

When redeemed these are the steps I take to produce the IRL objects. My objective in sharing these is to also enable those with access to the tools to follow along if they want and extend the co-creation experience to making their physical as well.

1. Receive confirmation of a redeemable from fxhash
2. Run the live code
3. Separate the layers by hitting the E key
4. Download the blueprint by hitting the V key
5. Open in LightBurn and format for cutting
6. Use the color features to choose mat board
7. Cut the layers using a CO2 laser
8. Assemble and glue the layers together using PVA glue
9. Sign, number, and carefully pack
10. Ship to collectors all over the world