Output details

Automake: set of digitally manufactured craftworks (i.e. produced using rapid prototpying and CNC technologies) arising from the Automake research project

These digitally crafted works form part of an output series from the Automake project. Automake combined generative systems with craft knowledge and digital production technologies to innovate participatory methods of designing and making that blur the boundaries between maker and consumer, craft and industrial production. Automake investigated the use of internet-based generative systems in the digital design of one-off works and their manufacture with digital manufacturing technologies.

Started in 2006, this project is an example of early research into how online design tools can be combined with digital production technologies to create new forms of creative practice and models of business based on ‘consumer’ participation and individualisation of products. This field has substantially grown since the commencement of Automake in terms of economic growth and the number of systems and interfaces commercially utilised.

The produced craft works produced have been internationally recognised: work has been included in nine curated exhibitions and a range of articles and papers (see the portfolio for evidence). The project culminated in a shared show of work at the National Centre for Craft and Design (Hub) with related FutureFactories work by Lionel Dean, this included a catalogue. Two other highlights: the selection of pieces for Labcraft, the UK Crafts Council’s first touring exhibition focused on digital craft (9 UK venues, 50K+ visitors, 2010-2012), the most booked Crafts Council exhibition in the last 5 years and the Fabrication Laboratory (2010-2011) at the Spanish National Design Museum, DHUB. Due to high public interest the show was extended and instigated the publication of an exhibition book; Fabvolution. Three Automake pieces are now held in the Spanish national collection.