The creative use of laser processing and its
application to contemporary jewellery
S. O’Hana, K. Shoba, M. Schmidt, A Gale, L Li
Laser Processing Research Centre, School of Mechanical, Aerospace and Civil Engineering, University of Manchester, Sackville
Street Building, PO Box 88, Manchester M60 1QD, United Kingdom
‘Ocular series 1 - 6’
Fig.1: Ocular 1 (front)
Fig.3: Ocular 2 (front)
Fig.5: Ocular 3 (front)
Introduction
The search for new techniques in material handling within the
applied arts leads many artists to experiment with processes
originally developed for industries such as engineering. This project
explores the potential of laser processing with reference to the field
of contemporary jewellery and aims to engage both engineering and
art into productive conversation.
Concept
The body of work Ocular series 1-6 is designed to attract the
attention of art/design and science/engineering cultures and
attempts to see the other’s point of view by offering a glimpse into
the world of scientific research through the eye of a jeweller. The
designs, based on the aesthetic of optical measuring equipment,
are closely related to concepts of vision used in the English
language: ‘seeing the bigger picture’, ‘clouded vision’’, ‘blurred
vision’ to name a few. This is emphasized by the observation of
engineers in scientific research, the scrutiny that accompanies their
work and their test pieces that have, in their own right, become
inspirational material for this project.
Contact: Sarah O’Hana O7738734510
Sarah.ohana@postgrad.manchester.ac.uk MACE Research Showcase 2007
Fig.2: Ocular 1 (back)
Fig.4: Ocular 2 (back)
Fig.6: Ocular 3 (back)
Process
All pieces measure 48mm in diameter and are made using 0.6mm
aircraft grade titanium, cut with a 35W Lumonics M35LS Nd: YAG
pulsed laser using 3 bars of argon, 20Hz, 750v, speed of 24mm/min
(increasing) and 660 pulse energy. The images (oxides) were applied
using a 60W Universal CO2 pulsed laser at 100% power, 15% speed
and 1000ppi. Variable oxide depths occurring on the titanium surface
appear as different colours to the eye due to optical interference.
Parameters are altered according to required colour. 3mm acrylic was
cut at 100% power, 5% speed and 1000ppi, using a 60W CO2 laser.
Pieces were manually assembled using oxidised sterling silver chain,
reclaimed camera lenses and 12BA brass screws.
Results: Exhibition: ‘From Art to Engineering’
Figs. 1 to 6 illustrate three pieces from Ocular series 1-6 that track the
successful development of titanium oxidation by laser for use in
contemporary jewellery. The work will be exhibited within the
engineering community in the foyer of George Begg building,
February 21st - 28th 2007 (preview 21st Feb 6 - 8pm) and as part
of the Ars Ornata Europeana jewellery conference, in the Manchester
Museum, July/August 2007 (www.arsornata.org).