Our designer spotlight this week features Corretta Singer. A Shapie with some serious imagination and awesome steam punk aesthetic, her shop is a great example of the endless possibilities of 3D printing.

Tell us a little bit about yourself: Who are you? Where are you located?
I am a 3D generalist and animator currently living in Jamaica. I was born in Switzerland, but came to Jamaica when I was 5 years old with my mother and younger brother. I started out as a painter and visual artist but branched off into 3D and digital art after high school.


What’s the story behind your designs? What inspires you?
I love machines and mechanical things (I have Transformers all over my desk). I am interested in the way things work and the detail and aesthetic they can create, especially vintage machines. Machines are always considered to be for men, but I find them just as fascinating and want to incorporate their elements into my designs in a way that everyone can wear and enjoy. I then found out that this aesthetic was called “Steampunk” and I am continuing to develop it.

What brought you to 3D printing with Shapeways?
I had heard about 3D printing for the last few years, and the idea of making the characters and things I create on my computer into real objects, was very exciting. However, I always thought it would be something out of my reach as an individual. I found Shapeways one day while doing research on the internet, and even though there were other companies out there that offered the same services, the prices were the best on Shapeways, and the customer service has been great. Until I found Shapeways, I never imagined I would be creating jewelry or anything for that matter, in this way.

How did you learn how to design in 3D?
I am totally self-taught. Here in Jamaica there were no animation schools to teach this (they are just starting now). It was something I always wanted to do, so I spent years making it happen for myself, and in the process, becoming Jamaica’s first (but not only) female 3D animator. I make animated short films, and as a generalist I can do most things in the production pipeline now.

How do you promote your work?
I promote mostly on Facebook and Twitter and sometimes through my website / blog. I have found groups on Facebook recently such as “Steampunk Tendencies” where I can share my creations and also be inspired by others.

Who are your favorite designers or artists? Who in the Shapeways community has served as an inspiration to you?
I am fascinated by the designs and creations of Theo Jansen. I like that his creations move and seem alive, even though they are just objects…or are they alive? Hmmmm. Also, COVO of Forma Laboratories is a favorite of mine. I love his multi-piece pendants with working gears. I hope to do something like that with moving pieces someday.

If you weren’t limited by current technologies, what would you want to make using 3D printing?
An entire working vehicle (car, motorbike,) with a functioning engine and circuitry that works. It would be a challenge to model and engineer, but so satisfying to see finished and functioning.

Anything else you want to share?
Thanks to Shapeways for allowing people like myself the opportunity to create and share our designs and creations with the world. Living on an island with few opportunities is a challenge, and being able to know that someone on the far side of the globe can now touch something I created here, makes me feel warm and fuzzy inside. Keep being awesome Shapeways.

WHAT WE LOVE ABOUT THIS SHOP:

  • Wonderful photography – on white backgrounds as well as jewelry on a person
  • “Matching” products (You can pick them out immediately!)
  • Experiments with and has photos of different materials
  • Lovely descriptions 
  • Tags relate to the product

Thank you so much for the interview, Corretta! We cannot wait to see what else you come up with. Check out her entire shop here! If you’d like to be featured, as always, feel free to email aimee @ shapeways.com.