In biology tissues are organizations of similar cells that compounds organs and living organisms. Due to specific qualities of singles cells some peculiar functions of the tissue emerge, conditioning its effectiveness and determining its contribution to the life of the organism.

The same biological principles can be applied to design and architecture, investigating the effects of different elements distributions on different territories. Working with Blender allows to explore both mesh modeling and parametric strategies in order to easily introduce variations and evaluate several results without the need of complex logics setups. This approach, that is not necessarily exhaustive, can be crucial for a more deep design exploration.

The workshop we will be focused on mesh modelling in Blender, professional open-source software for 3D modelling, rendering and animation. We will combine common mesh’s operations with non-destructive procedures using blender’s modifiers and adapting them to specific parameters or attractors. Blender allows a relatively fast and flexible interaction with the 3D model and can be used as part of larger Computational Design workflow in the most explorative phases. We will also use Tissue, an add-on for Blender developed by Co-de-iT in order to explore functional and aesthetic impact of different pattern distributions applied to different geometries.

In addition, working with physical simulations in Blender it will be possible to explore some form finding strategies based on catenary membranes and mesh relaxations, combining the efficiency of the physical engine to the flexibility of a mesh modelling software.

Alessandro Zomparelli is since 2011 member of Co-de-iT as part of the design team for the “Reefs” project, a 3D printed reef system computationally designed for adaptation to marine environment. He is also tutor in several international workshops about computational design, including the AAVS Jordan 2013 and AAVS Dubai 2016. His background in Engineering and Architectural fields drived him to explore the opportunities of computational design in combination with 3D printing technologies at different scales, from architecture to human body. In 2012 he co-founded MHOX, a generative design studio focused on the development of body extensions with particular attention to customized masks, medical devices and fashion products. Since 2016 he is also Contract Professor at Accademia di Belle Arti di Bologna (ABABO) in the course of Digital Modeling Techniques.

Level: No knowledge of the software is necessary, however previous experiences with mesh modelling basics can be helpful.

Software to install: Blender 2.79

Deadline to apply: 27th February (23:59 CET)

General fee – 250€
50% discount for active IAAC students (student card/id required)