Digital Fabrication
Discover the exciting, cutting-edge tools available in our FabLab — Anderson Ranch’s impressive digital fabrication lab. These workshops provide powerful tools for self-expression in the hands of creative faculty, and present dynamic opportunities to merge the newest visual arts technologies with traditional processes.
A variety of workshops use the digital fabrication technology in the FabLab and throughout multiple studios on the Ranch campus. Explore the possibilities with our state-of-the-art equipment, including 4-axis CNC (computer-numerically-controll
Our expert faculty help you to master progressive new skill sets and exciting new ways of creating.
Emil Gorman
Studio Coordinator, Digital Fabrication
Emil Gorman is the Studio Coordinator for Digital Fabrication. He is an artist and designer with a passion for furniture and the implementation of sustainable materials. He received a BFA with a concentration in Human-Centered Design at Northern Michigan University. Preferred Pronouns: He/Him
Anderson Ranch Campus
Upcoming Workshops
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II
Level II
Students have experience working with stationary machines and power tools and are familiar with basic principles of joinery and 3-D design.
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III
Level III
Students have some formal training in 3-D design, experience with a variety of materials and fabrication processes, and know how to use machine and hand tools competently and safely. Students have a portfolio of their artwork.
Jun 5 - 9, 2023
9AM-5PM
Wood Bending and the CNC
Laura Kishimoto
Tuition $1,150
Code W0101-23
Bending represents a dramatic departure from most traditional fine woodworking. Rather than working with rectilinear geometry, artists lean into the materiality of the wood and explore its natural strengths through curvature. Reference faces are often non-existent, so joinery requires some creative thinking and novel use of machinery and hand tools. In this innovative workshop that bridges woodworking and digital fabrication, we utilize the CNC Router to fabricate jigs and molds for bending and cutting joinery. Basic drawing techniques in Rhinoceros 3-D are introduced as students design and prototype a project unique to their personal style.
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O
Open to All
Students of any skill and knowledge level.
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Ages 13 - 17
Jun 12 - 16, 2023
9AM-3PM
Flat-Pack Furniture Design for Teens
Emil Gorman
Tuition $625
Code W0202-23
This fun and technically challenging course for teens expands digital fabrication skills using the computer-numerically-controlled router (CNC). Students learn basic 3-D modeling techniques to design functional furniture objects. Projects are cut out of plywood on the CNC and laser cutters. Workflows cover toolpathing and g-code generation, material setup, machine operation, and wood finishing. Everyone walks away with a finished piece of furniture and some new fabrication skills.
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O
Open to All
Students of any skill and knowledge level.
Jun 19 - 23, 2023
9AM-5PM
The Hybrid Image: Digital and Physical
Ben Timpson
Tuition $1,200
Code P0306-23
In this workshop, new ideas and creative perspectives are brought to life by combining photography, painting, sculpture and collage through hands-on experimentation of exciting new transfer techniques. We learn to see photography as a multidimensional medium by incorporating digital fabrication tools and techniques to create photographic sculptures. Students print onto film and learn how to transfer images to traditional and nontraditional substrates while pushing the boundaries of creative possibilities. The workshop results in an expanded idea of how digital photography can be used to add depth and produce unique artwork.