Three-dimensional portrait through the use of low-cost digital manufacturing technologies in educational environments

Abstract

The study and representation of the shapes associated with the human body and the portrait is a part of the curriculum of the subjects of plastic, visual and audiovisual education in secondary education. Currently, the exercises are performed using traditional artistic techniques and in most cases in two-dimensional supports. When it comes to creating three-dimensional models, often it is used clay or other molding elements and construction techniques. This implies the need to have the specific materials and tools to elaborate them. In this article, an activity is presented for the creation of digital and physical three-dimensional portraits, whose objective is that it can be carried out in secondary education centers. For this, low-cost 3D technologies will be used that do not require specific training, accessible for teachers and students. This activity has been carried out with two groups of teachers and students during the academic year 2015-2016. The results shows that this activity is feasible in a school environment and that 3D portraits can be obtained at low cost.