The Value Of Modelmaking
There can be no doubt that technology has changed the modelmaking world in the last century. With digital modelling developing at such a rapid pace, there is always talk of physical models becoming obsolete. With technology able to make digital models that look like the real thing, why do we still need ‘real’ models?
In ‘What Makes a Miniature: Contemplating Miniaturisation in Global Material Culture’ author’s Jack Davy and Charlotte Dixon explain “We are inevitably drawn by their [models] haptic appeal, for there is an intrinsic desire to play with these tiny objects, to manipulate and rearrange them and to imagine ourselves, impossibly, inside or alongside them.” It is human nature to want to interact with the objects around them. Our understanding of objects, their context, scale, and what they represent, often hinges on how we interact with them. Though Davy and Dixon are referring to miniatures, models that are scaled up have much the same effect, the desire to climb, sit on, touch and move these huge objects.
Models can help to inform our understanding of objects to such a degree that they are often used in each stage of development for a product or building.
Before a design is even decided upon, sketch models can help to quickly decide on elements of the design.
Even after a design is created, it may need prototype models to test aspects of the product out, to ensure it is at it’s best.
Once the product is done models will be used to sell it to companies or consumers. Architectural models may be used to sell the idea or plans of a building before it is built.
In some cases a model may even be made long after a product is discontinued or obsolete, as part of a gallery or museum exhibit, an architectural model may be kept in the finished building on display.
Another piece of clear evidence that physical models are still desirable is the 3D printer, a machine that can make digital models into physical objects.
It is clear that despite digital modelling becoming more widely used and of a higher quality, physical models aren’t going anywhere and still have an important place in the design process, as well as the world at large.
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