The One-of-a-Kind Sculpture by Showichi Kaneda

Nov 22, 2024 at 5:11 PM
The one-of-a-kind sculpture, crafted in collaboration with artist Showichi Kaneda, is set to be on display at the Wynn Plaza store until November 24. This remarkable piece showcases the Japanese artist's exploration of his Human’s Own sculpture series. In this series, the shapes of formula racing cars ingeniously mimic the bodies of hammerhead sharks. Presented in a Las Vegas-specific red and black color scheme, the artwork initially underwent digital design and was then 3D printed. Kaneda dedicatedly handcrafted and refined the 3D prints, giving birth to the natural lines and curving forms that define the final piece. Complemented by sportswear-inspired Balenciaga logos, the artwork is finished with a shining gloss polish. This finish not only adds a touch of elegance but also creates an effect that is reminiscent of both traditional Japanese lacquerware craftsmanship and automotive surface finishes. The sculpture exudes a sense of fluidity, delving into themes of speed, progress, and survival in the context of the ever-changing worlds of fashion and technology.

Exploring the Sculpture's Design Process

The design process of this one-of-a-kind sculpture is a true masterpiece. Firstly, the digital design phase laid the foundation for the physical creation. The artist meticulously conceptualized how the shapes of formula racing cars would emulate the bodies of hammerhead sharks. This required a deep understanding of both automotive design and marine biology. The 3D printing process then brought the digital design to life, allowing for the precise replication of the intricate details. Kaneda's handcrafting and refinement of the 3D prints added a human touch, ensuring that every curve and line was perfect. The sportswear-inspired Balenciaga logos were seamlessly integrated, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the sculpture. The shining gloss polish was the final touch, giving the artwork a lustrous finish that catches the eye. This process showcases the artist's attention to detail and his ability to combine different elements to create a truly unique piece.

The Fusion of Japanese Craftsmanship and Automotive Finishes

The sculpture beautifully combines traditional Japanese lacquerware craftsmanship with automotive surface finishes. The natural lines and curving forms of the piece are reminiscent of the delicate work found in Japanese lacquerware. At the same time, the shining gloss polish gives it a modern and automotive feel. This fusion creates a visual contrast that is both captivating and unique. It shows how Japanese craftsmanship can be adapted and combined with contemporary design elements to create something truly extraordinary. The attention to detail in both the lacquerware craftsmanship and the automotive finishes is evident in every aspect of the sculpture, from the smoothness of the curves to the shine of the polish.

Themes Explored in the Sculpture

The sculpture delves deep into themes of speed, progress, and survival. The emulation of formula racing cars in the design represents the concept of speed, highlighting the fast-paced nature of modern life. Progress is also explored through the combination of traditional and contemporary elements. The use of 3D printing and modern design techniques alongside traditional Japanese craftsmanship shows how we can build on the past while moving forward. Survival is a theme that is subtly woven into the sculpture. In a world where fashion and technology are constantly changing, this piece serves as a reminder of the need to adapt and survive. It represents a connection between the natural world (represented by the hammerhead shark shapes) and the man-made world (represented by the formula racing cars and modern design elements).