Intro to Critical Making

In this 90-minute workshop, participants learn how everyday objects can be transformed into digital artifacts using 3D scanning. Together, we’ll explore why researchers, artists, and archivists use scanning technologies, with a focus on cultural heritage preservation and storytelling. Through guided demonstrations, you’ll be introduced to core techniques including handheld scanning, photogrammetry, and basic model cleanup. Working in pairs, you’ll scan a small object and capture its story, then join the group in creating a scan of a cropped interactive pose. Along the way, we’ll discuss strategies for sharing digital models and the possibilities they open up for research and creative practice.

Attendees are encouraged to bring a small personal object to scan during the workshop. All other equipment will be provided in the makerspace. By the end of the session, you’ll leave with both hands-on experience and a new perspective on how technology can preserve, reimagine, and expand the life of physical objects.