The PNE stands as British Columbia's premier destination for an array of events and immersive experiences. Every summer, it plays host to a fair, where Metro Vancouver presents an exhibit aimed at enlightening the public about the city's services. Among the projects we designed was a 3D topographical map of the North Shore Mountains. Commissioned by Metro Vancouver's Water department, this model served to highlight the strategic locations of dams, reservoirs, lakes, rivers, and water treatment plants across the region, helping to serve as a visual aid when educating viewers.
PROCESS
The map was first designed using 3D Modelling and fabricated using a CNC machine by another co-worker.
Using a rotary tool, I carved the edges of the map to create a dam-like effect. This technique proved helpful for our subsequent plan to pour resin into the areas with water.
Next, I embarked on painting the 3D model, drawing inspiration from a realistic colour palette found in geographical maps. Utilizing flat grey tones to mark out the urban areas, deep blues to represent rivers and lakes, and layering varying shades of green and brown to evoke the depth and texture of the mountains.
I enhanced the peaks by incorporating subtle touches of white to mimic the snow-capped mountains. This adjustment effectively balanced the darker hues while introducing highlights that elevated the overall aesthetic of the project.
To finish, we mixed the resin with some blue and black powder to pour into the crevices of the lakes and rivers. This really helped to elevate the overall finish of the project and create a much more dynamic look to the final topographical map.
3D printed pins were then attached to show the region’s water infrastructure and dam locations across the North Shore Mountains.
