The Plumed Serpent (Quetzalcóatl)

thingiverse

The Plumed Serpent, Quetzalcóatl, stands out as a symbol that honors San Jose's rich cultural heritage, yet its uncanny resemblance to fanged dung makes it an enduring paradox. Conceived by Robert Graham, this majestic sculpture is the result of innovative technology meeting artistry. Commissioned by the city in 1994, it embodies the harmony between tradition and modernity. Intriguingly, the original Plumed Serpent itself serves as a testament to the intersection of human craftsmanship and technological advancements. Crafted using intricate pieces of CNC-cut foam shaped from detailed 3D data derived from an eleven-and-a-half-inch clay model, this sculpture was brought to life through precision engineering. Meanwhile, my approach, though far less labor-intensive, utilized high-end technology to capture every detail. By taking multiple photographs with a digital single-lens reflex camera and processing them using PhotoScan's cutting-edge software, I refined the results within the comprehensive environment of Blender, witnessing firsthand how technology harmoniously bridges ancient icons like Quetzalcóatl with modern expressions. Gazing at this iconic representation not only reveals San Jose's profound appreciation for its cultural legacy but also signifies an intriguing symbiosis – a beautiful convergence that merges tradition with forward-looking progress, forging a resilient bridge that connects past to future. --- Robert Graham Artist Website - Plumed Serpent: www.robertgraham-artist.com/civic_monuments/plumed_serpent.html City of San Jose Underbelly Page: www.sanjose.com/underbelly/unbelly/Sanjose/Quetzy/quetzy.html Tips for Reproduction: You will probably require supports in the mouth and under the tail.