Scanning sculptures is something new that we are seeing over the last few years. It has caught on in popularity for the mere fact that is cannot only help to repair damaged pieces of art, but it can also be used to expose more people to these magnificent pieces of art that might not otherwise be seen by new people on a regular basis. This article will discuss the process of 3D scanning and create replicas of sculptures as well as other pieces of art.

3D Scanning to Repair Damaged Sculptures

Taking the time to repair some of the damage that is created by time on a sculpture can salvage the piece and allow it to remain on display. This is a far cry from the old days where people had to take a sculpture off display simply in order to preserve it for future generations. With the new advances, this leads to more and more people to be able to see these sculptures and enjoy them as they were meant to be. If a sculpture does become damaged, there can be a simple 3D scan done on it to map out the damaged area and then simply print out a piece that will fit perfectly.

One example of this could be the Liberty Bell, we are all used to the crack that is in the side of it. Technology has come far enough that this crack could be fixed and for the first time in years, the Liberty Bell could be whole again. This is just one of the many examples of how this technology is able to be used to take something that was originally damaged or has become damaged and help to restore it to its perfect state.

3D Scanning to Make Replicas

Pieces of art that are home to one museum may not be seen by anyone unless they come to the museum, even in a virtual tour, these pieces may not be included in order to entice you to come in and see it in person. With the advancements made in 3D scanning, you are now able to see these sculptures in person at your local museum. This is all in part to being able to scan the original and then creating a replica out of many different printable materials.

One such example is a piece that was part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. It was recently scanned and a 3D model of it was made and put on tour going to several museums around the country. The replica was so close to the original, that curators at the museum had to be careful not to send the actual sculpture by accident.

This process will be getting more and more advanced as the years go by and eventually this will lead to a new chance for people to see these works of art that might not otherwise have ever been seen by anyone else. 3D scanning to make replicas is going to in the end lead to a new experience for those that love art and those whose job is to bring that art to the public.