I plan to create a drawing using lasers by reflecting them off a series of mirrors as illustrated below. My initial idea is to make a minimalistic map of the world, but I am still weighing my options since I want something simple enough that it is possible, but not so simple that it is boring.
I did a few tests with the laser, and it proves that this idea should be feasible, albeit with immense difficulty. Smudges on the mirrors, long distances, and too much smoke caused the light to become unfocused and illuminate the surrounding area. However, with a proper set up and planning these should be avoidable.
I think the part of this idea I enjoy the most is how distinctive it is. I searched for this concept to see if there were any examples, but the most I was able to find were people creating basic shapes to teach kids. I don’t think I have ever worked on an art project this unique, and I am excited to get started.
Questions:
1. Do you have any ideas to increase visibility of the laser via suspended particles?
2. Do you have any ideas of how to keep the beam as focused as possible?
3. Is there a cheap nonreflective material that absorbs a lot of light?
4. Does anyone have experience with lasers and have general advice?
This idea is so exciting. I think the use of lasers as your medium is such an awesome choice. Black felt or other black cotton fabrics might be a good choice for background materials. I also think that potentially leaning into and playing with the haze and almost halo effect that the smoke causes could be really cool. I definitely agree that this is a unique project and I am excited to see how things go.
So, I wanted to ask, what shape / image are you going to make, because you used the word geometric in class, but it feels like you didn’t have something in mind yet. That being said however, I think this project will turn out great since it so vibrant and the laser creates these very clean lines. With regards the bleed though, try black craft paper before you try some of the more expensive alternatives, and make sure its mat to absorb the most light.
It was mentioned in class, but you could try using water with a couple drops of something opaque like milk to keep the the visibility. Black matte fabric should work to absorb light. On a safety note, green lasers are stronger and scatter more than red lasers, but that also means they need more power and are more dangerous. Make sure you don’t get the lasers in anyone’s eyes. As my question, a small detail, but would the finished piece be on a wall or flat on a table?