GreTA

Additive manufacturing of recycable structures for theatre sculptures

“Standing Female Figure.” A theatrical sculptural reproduction after Henry Moore with a pigmented spray-applied coating of glutin glue. The figure has a height of 54 cm. — “Standing Female Figure” – theatrical sculptural reproduction after Henry Moore with a pigmented spray-applied coating of glutin glue, height: 54 cm.

In the research project “GreTA”, artists from the Hochschule für Bildende Künste Dresden (HfBK) collaborated with researchers from the TU Dresden to explore new approaches to sustainable stage design through the use of advanced 3D printing technologies. The goal was to produce impressive stage scenery in a resource-efficient way while avoiding environmentally harmful materials such as Styrofoam. The project focused on the “Liquid Deposition Modeling” (LDM) process, which enables the 3D printing of bio-based materials. Extensive material testing was carried out to identify suitable natural-material mixtures that are stable, lightweight, cost-effective, and recyclable. Among the binding agents examined were agar-agar, carrageenan, and animal glue. A particularly promising result was achieved with a mixture of cork powder and glutin glue, which can be easily recycled and composted. The results of this project demonstrate promising advances in the development of innovative materials and technologies for life-sized sculptures, furniture, and other design objects. The “GreTA” project highlights how sustainability can be successfully combined with modern manufacturing technologies, opening up new creative and technological possibilities that extend far beyond the fields of stage design and art.

3D-printed seating group made from biodegradable and recyclable material. Three identical elements that can be flexibly positioned and stacked to create different seating arrangements. — 3D-printed seating group made from biodegradable and recyclable material.

Period

01.09.2021–31.03.2025

Project partners

Dresden University of Fine Arts (HfBK)

Funding

This measure is co-financed with tax revenues based on the budget approved by the Saxon State Parliament.

This project is funded by the Free State of Saxony from resources provided by the Saxon State Ministry for Science, Culture and Tourism (SMWK) and administered by the Saxon Development Bank (SAB).

Project management