Skating Giraffe
An expressive 3D figure with a dynamic pose and hand-painted finish.
- Client
- B3D
Scope of work
- 3D modelling
- large-format printing
- structural reinforcement
- assembly
- artistic painting
A replica with its own character
The starting point was a supplied 3D model and photographic documentation, but the aim was not a dry reproduction. We wanted to create a livelier, more artistic version of the replica.
Developing the form
We posed the source model in SideFX Houdini and remodelled it in Blender. Skates and a tongue were added, while the muzzle and eyes were changed to give the figure a more dynamic and light character.
Structure and printing
Because the legs were very thin, the print had to be reinforced with steel rods. After assembly, the figure was prepared for surface refinement and painting.
Painting
The finish played the most important role. Visible brushwork, soft colour transitions, watercolour-like patches and glossy eyes keep the giraffe from looking like a standard print.
The result
This is not a realistic animal copy, but a sculpture with a distinct personality — playful, elegant and full of movement.
What mattered in this project
A new pose and expression
We posed the source model in SideFX Houdini and remodelled it in Blender, adding skates and a tongue while changing the muzzle and eyes.
Reinforcing a slender structure
The very thin legs required steel reinforcement so the large-format print could remain stable as a sculpture.
Large-format 3D printing
The model was prepared for production in sections, assembled and refined to preserve the fluidity of the dynamic silhouette.
Artistic painting
The artist used a semi-realistic approach with visible brushwork, watercolour-like patches, a cohesive palette and glossy dark eyes.
A sculpture rather than a literal copy
The result is more interpretive than realistic — playful, elegant and full of movement.
It starts with the form
Remodelling gave the figure its lightness and personality before the finishing stage.
The raw print
At this stage the construction and preparation for surface finishing are still visible.
Ready for painting
After assembly and reinforcement, the figure was ready for the artist's work.
Working with the surface
Surface finishing kept the form legible despite the object's scale.
Expression matters
The changed muzzle and eyes were central to the artistic interpretation.
The brushstroke
Semi-realistic painting gave the replica an individual character instead of a production-print appearance.
Watercolour-like patches
The patches were treated softly and painterly, with a warm, cohesive palette.
Detail and colour
Small colour decisions build the expression of the whole figure.
A sculpture with character
The hand-painted surface makes the object an interpretation rather than a literal copy.
Final adjustments
Before delivery we checked colour, proportions and the legibility of details from different distances.
The finished giraffe
Dynamic posture, skates and painterly finish form one coherent realisation.
Form in motion
The silhouette was designed to work well from a side view as well.
The gaze
Glossy dark eyes balance the playful form and give it expression.
Interpretation over imitation
Technology is a means to build a distinctive sculptural object.
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Finishing and painting
End-to-end finishing and painting delivered by Monkeyfab, from digital preparation to a finished object.
Technologies used
Technologies
Large-format 3D printing
Large-format 3D printing as part of Monkeyfab's integrated production process.
Technologies
Artistic painting
Artistic painting as part of Monkeyfab's integrated production process.
Technologies
Processing and assembly
Processing and assembly as part of Monkeyfab's integrated production process.
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