How Jo Fairfax Transforms His Surrealist Artwork through 3D Printing

Renowned contemporary artist Jo Fairfax has garnered substantial acclaim for his recent collection of 3D printed sculptures, which draw inspiration from Carl Jung’s concept of the 12 archetypes. Raised in rural Berkshire, UK, Fairfax’s upbringing instilled in him a fervent dedication to invention and creativity, despite facing limitations in available resources.

Fairfax’s artistic journey commenced when he defied the career guidance of his school to pursue his aspiration of becoming an artist. His foundation in holography and virtual reality has markedly influenced his creative process. Nevertheless, he ultimately recognized the significance of sculpture in embodying the human experience.

The emergence of 3D printing technology opened up a new realm of creative prospects for Fairfax, describing his discovery of 3D printing as a pivotal moment akin to “hearing about magic.” The progression of desktop 3D printing and its growing accessibility allowed him to finally manifest the intricate details and transcendental qualities of his artistic vision.

Acquiring a Creality Ender V2, Fairfax delved into the realm of 3D printing, relying on YouTube tutorials and an experimental approach to master the craft. He meticulously designs the intricate components of his sculptures using software such as Blender and Tinkercad before subjecting them to the 3D printing process.

Each 3D printed “kit” comprises multiple individually printed pieces, which are assembled, hand-fettled, and meticulously painted to achieve the desired finish. Fairfax’s commitment to the process is evident in his meticulous approach, from the hand-finishing of each component to the application of custom-designed decals and varnish.

To Fairfax, 3D printing has not only revolutionized his artistic practice but also holds immense potential for global advancement in engineering, architecture, and medicine. He envisions a future where digital fabrication fosters a brighter, more beautiful world.

Fairfax’s journey serves as a testament to the transformative influence of technology in the realm of art. His innovative utilization of 3D printing has not only enhanced his artistic practice but has also inspired him to envisage a future where creativity and technology converge to shape a better world.