This weeks designer spotlight features Geman Wu, the brains behind Alminty3D. This shop is colorful, fun and fresh – and you can tell architecture is the main influence! With fun jewelry and miniatures (and amazing photography) this shop is a delight to browse.
Tell us a little bit about yourself: Who are you? Where are you located?
I was from China and I graduated from building science program in USC. I was a lighting designer last year but now I am an amateur programmer and the founder of Alminty3D Studio. Our home studio is based in Los Angeles.
What’s the story behind your designs? What inspires you?
I was always a big fan of geometry and mathematics in school. Whenever I looked at an object I like to simplify the shape and form to a “geometric abstraction” in my head. The current design starts with basic polyhedrons, and more parametric designs are coming soon. As a mid-century design lover, I 3D printed these miniature designer chairs as my wedding favor for our guests. And now they are optimized for 3D printing and available in different colors.
What brought you to 3D printing with Shapeways?
I was searching for 3D printing services online and Shapeways was the first to pop up. After looking through Shapeways website, I loved this community and I gave it a try.
How did you learn how to design in 3D?
I studied building science in school and I 3D printed a parametric panel as a final project; I was quite familiar with the design and printing process. My favorite 3D modeling tool is Rhinoceros and Grasshopper.
How do you promote your work?
We have just started doing marketing. We had been selling our products in UniqueUSA LA summer market. We are trying to get people’s attention on Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.
Who are your favorite designers or artists? Who in the Shapeways community has served as an inspiration to you?
Le Corbusier is one of my favorite architects. He believes in mathematical orders and designs in harmony and proportion.That inspired my jewelry design. Charles and Ray Eames is also my favorite designer. That is why I am making miniature version of Eames furniture in a modern interpretation.
If you weren’t limited by current technologies, what would you want to make using 3D printing?
I want to print customized shoes that matches foot shapes. Also 3D printed clothing using cotton, silk or stretchable and flexible material.
Anything else you want to share?
I am so proud to be part of Shapeways community. It offers me chances to create my own designs and to meet cool people.
You used to have some products in Beta. How did you use this feature?
I mark some of the items in Beta when I have made changes to the file and they have not been printed yet. This feature enables us to show our under-development products and gather feedback from customers if they want to print it first.
WHAT WE LOVE ABOUT THIS SHOP:
- Amazing, amazing photography
- Great branding and banner imagery
- Sections for easy shopping
- Different material shots
Thank you, Geman! Your shop is inspirational and unique – can’t wait to see what else you make! Don’t forget to check out their website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Etsy. To be featured, email aimee @ shapeways.com.