Obama Hope Lithophane

thingiverse

Here, I crafted a Lithophane from the Obama Hope image. Utilizing Photoshop, I converted the original poster image to grayscale, then employed a Lithophane generator to extrude the image, experimenting with z variables until it appeared correct when illuminated from behind. One print was completed at 20% infill, resulting in a plaid jacket effect when held up to the light. By increasing the infill to 40-50%, the lithophane becomes more substantial. Observing the pictures, you'll notice I experimented with the Obama Hope image, the original photo, and various levels of extrusion and infill. Personally, I find the plaid quite appealing. I believe 3D printing is a fantastic means of updating the Lithophane creation process and continuing to transform popular images. Here, my goal was to emphasize the tactile aspects of visual data - the lights and darks represented by the peaks and valleys. Similar to how sound waves enable us to "see" sound, I aimed to create a work where we could touch light and darkness.