Dimensional Art

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The following information is quoted from the Vectric website, where I obtained the necessary software to create this type of picture. The software is a critical element but only one of many to create the finished item.

People are constantly looking for that ‘Special gift’ for a loved one, family and friends and a Lithophane or 3D picture is the perfect answer. The 3D lithophane is completely different to the usual printed photograph and is something that very few people will have seen. People are trully amazed by a lithophane that comes to life when lit from behind, and will last for generations giving untold pleasure to everyone who see’s it.

What is a Lithophane?

Lithophanes are 3D photographs that when viewed in normal lighting look a little dull and lifeless. But when back lit transform into stunning 3D pictures with depth and detail that cannot be seen in a flat 2D photograph.

Lithophanes originate from a process developed back in the mid 1800’s for mass producing 3D pictures in porcelain. A 3D design was hand engraved into a thin sheet of bees wax that was placed over a lighted candle to show the effect of light passing through the wax. This master design was then used to make a mold for casting designs in porcelain. Varying levels of light to pass through the porcelain depending upon the thickness

The Greek origin of lithophane work means “light in stone” or to “appear in stone”.

Examples of what lithophanes were used for  include Decorative Lamp Shades and Window Panels that came to life when lit from behind and German Beer Jugs that had a translucent bases that turned into 3D pictures once the beer had been drunk. Very few of the original antique lithophanes have survived because the 3D images look crude and worthless unless held in front of a light.

For more information about lithophanes visit the The Blair Museum of Lithophanes .

Here in Dimensional Art you see but one example of many Lithophanes I have created. This one is small measuring about 4.5 x 6 inches. I can go much larger with my HB2 machine. The material is Corian (brand) countertop material, originally 0.25 inches thick. I put together this simple prototype lightbox as one way to display this interesting type of art.

Now that I have proven the electricals, I plan to work on larger more elaborate presentations and framing. Follow this LINK to see how a Lithophane is made.

In case anyone was wondering, the partial leaf visiable in the masthead and also in the very tiny icon that you see when bookmarking this site (called a favicon) was made by me. There is a complete description on how it was made HERE.

I don’t have a practical use for it but it was an interesting project.

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The title has a double meaning. All radio stations have a “callsign”. These are call signs for the owners of amateur radio callsigns. They are plaques to hang on the wall. Most amateur operators are rather proud of their calls and like to show them off at their operating positions or at work and elsewhere.

I design these first in software, simulate the carving then export to my shop computer system. These are made from a 5″ x 10″ x 3/4″ red oak plank and carved by my HB2 CNC router machine. Then each one is sanded, detailed and hand finished by me. These three are hand rubbed Tung oil finish.

This is the type of work of which I am interested in doing more. Anyone having a carving project like this they would like to have done, don’t hesitate in contacting me for more information.

Welcome to Dimensional Art. This blog has been created by me, Daniel Kautz to display the results of my passion and efforts producing unique dimensional items of enduring value. Whether these items are considered art or beautiful craftsmanship, that is in the eye and mind of the beholder. I make no pretense to either, but strive to achieved both.

If you like what you see then I am pleased.

It will be awhile as I develop this blog . It will grow with time. Please post your comments. I Have opened the blog for comments so you may do that as soon as soon as you desire.