Introduction
In this article, we would like to share our experiences with the large-scale printing of an art object that we produced for the Schaufler Foundation in Sindelfingen. This project presented us with challenges that tested not only our technical skills but also our organizational abilities. Until the last minute, it was unclear whether we would overcome all the hurdles in time. But let’s start from the beginning.
The Schaufler Foundation and the project
The Schaufler Foundation is an organization based in Sindelfingen that is committed to promoting art, culture and science. It supports innovative projects and has made a name for itself by funding art objects and exhibitions. For this particular project, the foundation commissioned us to produce two 2-metre-high artworks that were characterized by a particularly complex geometry.
Non-manifest geometries and large dimensions
The first concept presentation by the artist (who wishes to remain anonymous) already revealed the extraordinary challenge: the object consisted of so-called non-manifest geometries – shapes that do not occur in nature and are therefore difficult to visualize and even more difficult to produce. In addition to this geometric peculiarity, the object was to have a mirror-smooth, chrome-plated surface.
These requirements led to an intensive planning phase in which we first had to determine the production method. The size and shape of the object made it necessary to try out new approaches.
Conversions for a unique project
The dimensions of the artwork and the specific requirements of the printing process made it necessary to reconstruct our company building. We installed an extended passageway especially for this project, which provided the necessary space and technical requirements for the artwork. This measure was associated with considerable expense, which later proved to be unnecessary.
The challenge of surface finishing
A particularly challenging part of the project was the planned surface finishing. The mirror-smooth chrome plating that was originally planned turned out to be a major challenge. Despite extensive research and discussions with experts in the fields of lacquering, luxury furniture manufacturing and metal finishing, we were unable to find a solution that both met our quality requirements and could be realized within a reasonable timeframe and budget.
After much deliberation, we had to make a compromise and forego the surface finishing. This adjustment required a contract amendment, but was ultimately accepted by all parties involved.
Final assembly on location
Another obstacle was the transportation of the object. Due to its size and fragility, it could not be transported fully assembled as originally planned. We had arranged for modifications to be made specifically for this purpose. Instead, we manufactured the object in individual parts and carried out the final assembly on site at the museum. To ensure that the quality was not compromised during assembly, we set up a temporary workshop at the exhibition site. There we were even able to reprint and adjust some smaller elements directly.
Conclusion
The large-scale printing of the art object for the Schaufler Foundation was an extraordinary project that pushed us to the limits of our capacities. In addition to the technical challenges, such as the production of the geometries and the search for a suitable surface finish, there were also logistical hurdles that challenged us to the very end.
Despite all the difficulties, we are proud of the result. The close cooperation with the Schaufler Foundation and the final adjustments on site have led to the artwork now being exhibited at Schauwerk Sindelfingen until May 24, 2025.
We hope that this insight into our project will inspire you and give you an impression of the challenges and opportunities offered by large-scale printing.