A WORLD first is to be unveiled in a Teesside gallery. Staff from the School of Computing at Teesside University are renowned for teaching computer animation.
But now two faculty members have created what is believed to be the first ever 3D print of a Mandelbulb.
A Mandelbulb is a shape that continues to give detail, no matter how much you magnify it. It was made based on mathematical calculations published on the Internet by Daniel White.
And it was created using a 3D printer by Gary Quinn, a technician at the School of Computing.
Gary was inspired to make the Mandelbulb after seeing Maggie Parker’s works Infinity and Torus, which are also on display at the exhibition.
Maggie, a senior lecturer in computer design animation, said: “We believe we have created the first real representation of a computer Mandeldrot algorithm. Its an amazing high to think we have made it.”
The sphere, which has a bumpy surface and can fit in the palm of your hand will be on display at the Python Gallery, Gosford Street, Middlesbrough.
And the exhibition will also include the artwork of 21 staff from the School of computing including photography and sculptures. Maggie, who is also a fine artist, helped to organise the exhibition.
She said: “This exhibition has been formed to showcase the work of the School of Computing staff.
“The cross over between art and science is getting narrower all the time.
“It shows we’re part of the local community and highlights our high standards.”
The retiring Dean of the school, Derek Simpson said: “This exhibition, is an excellent opportunity for both academic and ancillary staff to consolidate their status as artists in both the public’s and students’ eyes and disseminate this work into the larger community”.
Peter Heselton curator of the Python Gallery, said: “It’s a very eclectic mixture of work, covering a range from drawings to conceptual design. Because it’s so wide ranging, there’s something for everyone.
“The public will find it an intriguing exhibition and exciting that the school is a creative place, not just a scientific place.”
The exhibition runs until March 12, Monday to Friday 9.30am to 5pm. Entry is free.