ICS 3D Lab

The Institute of Classical Studies 3D Lab is connected to the activities of the School of Advanced Study’s 3D Centre, based in the ICS and IHR. We have access to a small selection of 3D hardware and software in the Institute and Library, and run a range of activities including training, awareness raising, and research into 3D applications for classics and archaeology.

Staff:

• Dr Gabriel Bodard, Reader in Digital Classics
• Dr Valeria Vitale, Research Fellow
• Joanna Ashe, Librarian of the Combined Classics Library

Equipment:

• Our 3D printer (a CraftBot 3 Wifi) lives in the Classics Library. (A sister printer, an Ultimaker 3 Extended, lives in the Institute of Historical Research.)
• We have an Alienware Area51 PC with advanced graphics processor in the Library (not bookable via the desk; speak to Dr Bodard for access to this computer). This computer is able to process 3D files, e.g. to perform photogrammetry, several times faster than the regular PCs.
• We also have several virtual reality (VR) headsets, several of which are portable units that enable you to use your smartphone as a VR device, but also including one HTC Vive System.
• The computers in the Library’s electronic resources room have licenses for Agisoft Metashape, and are loaded with other 3D imaging and editing, modelling, and VR software.

Training:

• Photogrammetry training. We have offered (and would be happy to discuss for the future): half-day workshops for small groups in the Classics library; and two-hour sessions in local heritage institutions.
• 3D modelling training. We have offered two-day, one-day or half-day sessions for small groups (maximum 10). These can be targeted at postgraduate/postdoctoral, general public, or school-age groups, with appropriate activities for each. We are happy to visit schools or community centres for such events.
• Sessions in ICS MA modules (especially ICS03) and the online Sunoikisis Digital Classics programme, including most recently:
  • 3D modelling (2021)
  • Publishing 3D models (2021)
  • 3D imaging and scanning (2021)
  • 3D imaging and printing (2019)
  • 3D modelling for cultural heritage (2019)
  • Ethical issues in digital cultural heritage (2019)
• Training in international Digital Humanities intensive workshops, such as:
  • Digital Epigraphy Workshop, London (May 2019)
  • British Institute at Ankara, Turkey (Mar 2019)
  • Cluj Napoca, Romania (Jun 2018)
  • Digital Humanities Summer School, Borovets, Bulgaria (Sep 2017)
• ICS summer school in 3D Imaging and Modelling for Classics and Cultural Heritage (July 2021)

Check the ICS Events list for training events

Other activities:

• HARL’s Ehrenberg Collection is in the process of being 3D imaged and uploaded to the Sketchfab platform, thanks to Alicia Walsh of Recollection Heritage who set up and documented the process.
• We have used 3D imaging or 3D printed objects as part of several public engagement events in the Institute and the School (e.g. ICS Ancient Magic; Living Frankenstein; Being Human 2017; Clay, Marble and Pixels; Iris Festival of Imagined Worlds; ICS Monsters).
• 3D printed objects have been part of exhibits and displays at the Classics Library, Senate House Library, and elsewhere.
• 3D printing for cultural heritage and education (e.g. Object Based Learning for Relationships and Sex Education)
• We are able to offer consultancy and advice, from PhD proposals to funding applications.
• We are very keen to collaborate in joint research projects with scholars or heritage professionals worldwide.  

If you are interested in training, consultancy, collaborating on a research project, or any other involvement with the ICS 3D Lab, please get in touch with valeria.vitale@sas.ac.uk or gabriel.bodard@sas.ac.uk. For access to the Ehrenberg Collection, the electronic resources room, or the Classics Library's other resources, contact joanna.ashe@sas.ac.uk.