This week, my group visited the Perlman Museum and took photos of a water pot to later turn into a 3D object. Modeling objects and viewing them in exhibitions serve different purposes, but they both offer unique ways of understanding and appreciating objects of historical or cultural significance.
Attempting to model our object provided a more intimate connection to the object, since it resulted in noticing certain details that I otherwise would not have noted. In a museum, observers can get a general understanding of the object by looking at it, but this doesn’t compare to the level of detail and understanding that comes from actively engaging with the object.
Attempting to model an object using photogrammetry involves a much more active process of close looking, and attention to detail. We needed to closely examine our object from all angles and from close up versus afar, which can reveal details that may have been overlooked in a simple visual examination. In addition, the process of creating a 3D model also allows for a deeper understanding of the object’s form, texture, and surface features (such as our pot’s chips and discolorations), which can be difficult to appreciate in a 2D image.
This active engagement with the object definitely increased my curiosity surrounding the pot, as well as the stories it can tell. For example, by modeling an ancient artifact, we can better understand its function and cultural significance, and learn more about the people and society that created it, and I’m curious about everything this pot has lived through to be weathered in the manner that it is.
Moving from a passive observer to an active modeler also changes our thinking on communicating about art and history to various publics. Modeling objects using photogrammetry allows for the creation of digital representations that can be shared and explored in new and innovative ways. This opens up new possibilities for engaging with and communicating about objects, particularly with people who may not have access to the physical object. Moving from a passive observer to an active modeler has deepened my understanding about the importance of sharing data about an object to observers in a clear and objective manner.
