Beard Candy (Hercules)

Inspiration & Ideation

Background

This specific series of work is inspired by various statues that include marble figures from Greece and Rome that I grew up studying in art school. I'm interested in how these figures and statues can be portrayed as representing the epitome of desirable masculine traits, with a particular focus of interest on their elaborate beards. Beards can be seen as a symbol of male virility, strength, and wisdom; and also a fashion trend I am enamored with. This beard is from the Farnese Hercules statue. This work of mine reflects on how notions of masculinity can be encouraged systemically through various objects and visuals linked to physical appearance. I also wanted to capture the humor, exaggeration, absurdity, and superficiality associated with the act of desire around these beards.

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Using 3D Scans/Digital Models I acquired online from a free digital archive of historical artifacts called "Scan The World," I identified sculptures of stereotypically masculine figures I learned about throughout my life. I isolated the beards and matched them to 3D scans of my face using digital software including Meshmixer and Rhino 3D. The beards are 3D printed, cleaned, and refined. I then make a silicone mold of the beard allowing me to make accurate replicas quickly and in multiple materials. Finally, I cast the beard (this one in resin) and create the desired surface.

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Results

Info and images of final work for exhibition. Can leave this out until ready, if necessary.

Digital Tools and Processes

Software: "Scan the World" Digital Archive, Autodesk MeshMixer, Rhino 3D, Makerbot 3D, Revo Scan

Hardware: Revopoint POP 2 3D Scanner, Makerbot Replicator 2 3D Printer, Macbook Pro, Grinders, Rotary Tool, sanders, polishers

Physical Tools and Processes

Tools: "Scan the World" Digital Archive, Autodesk MeshMixer, Rhino 3D, Makerbot 3D, Revo Scan

Processes: Revopoint POP 2 3D Scanner, Makerbot Replicator 2 3D Printer, Macbook Pro, Grinders, Rotary Tool, sanders, polishers

Materials

Resin, Plastic, Glass, Paint

Future / What's Next?

This is the just the first piece in a series of work of various masculine, historic figures of prominence that I wanted to emulate at one time. I plan to make many more beards from scans from other figures within the digital archives. I already have beards from depictions of Marcus Antonius as well as Michelangelo that I plan to use in my next works. I also envision making a series of works from these scans that are digital animations and performative acts of me donning each of these beards.

What are future applications of the project, or where do you expect this work to go next?...