For the layers project I really wanted to try using clear acrylic. I had the idea to try and laser engrave starts to mimic different constellations and then the layers would help add depth. I wanted to add something else besides starts so I decided on incorporating the planets (with pluto).
I plan to have 4 layers (4th is the top most)
First Layer: Background starts to add some demension
Second Layer: Planets
Third Layer: Big stars for constellations
Fourth Layer: Clear (no engravings)
Here are some artworks that inspired me.
Hi Vanshika! Very cool idea. After you print these layers do you plan on painting the planets and/stars?
Hi Hannah! Thank you for your question. I was thinking about painting the engraved vectors of the planets so that there is a little bit of color. I wanted to just paint the lines so that it is a bit more subtle and does not distract from the stars.
What constellation do you plan to design your stars off of?
Hi Shane! I was planning on including a few constellations. I wanted to have big dipper, cassiopeia, ursa major, ursa minor, and the cancer one!
As a lover of stargazing, I really can appreciate your concept! What made you decide to do the certain constellations you feature? This is going to look great!
Hi Marcella! I chose a few of the constellations because I very clearly remembers their names (from this one astronomy class in 9th grade haha) so I thought it would be nice to include the ones I already know, and then I searched up the one for Cancer because it is my star sign!!
Hi Vanshika!! I love your idea!! What are you hoping viewers take away from your piece?
Hi Jada! That is a very interesting question. I know that when I look up to the stars they often remind me that there is a lot more to see in this world and that is it important to go explore these things you so desire to see. So I am hoping that my piece reminds people of actually looking up into the sky and seeing stars, and then hoping that they find their own meaning to that!
Sounds like a really cool idea! What thickness of acrylic are you thinking of using?
Hi Sydney! I am going to do my test cuts on 1/4 inch, but if that is too thick for the way I want it to turn out, I would try to do it on 1/8 inch.
Do you plan to incorporate any lighting? You could string up some LED lights in the star holes of the material. I also love that Pluto is included!
Hi Amanda! I really wanted to try and do something with LEDs because I love how it changes completely change the look of the piece, if I find a way to make some sort of stand, I will definitely try that!!