This might be creepy but if you have ever wanted to be someone else for a little while, then here is a solution: an exact 3D printed replica of a real person’s face.
The creator behind this idea is Shuhei Okawara, a Japanese designer that runs a mask and theatrical accessories shop in Tokyo.
“Just for fun”
Even though we are still in a context of a pandemic, please note that these masks are not meant to protect against any viruses. The designer created these ultra-realistic masks for fun, as a new addition to its portfolio of accessories.
The whole story started a few months ago, when a group of Japanese people were anonymously asked if they would pay to be recreated into realistic masks. A hundred people were interested and accepted their face to be replicated for about $386 (314€).
After they sent a picture of their face, the artists reworked and 3D printed them into masks. For now, we do not have much information about the technology used to produce these masks. It should be noted that companies that have already attempted to produce ultra-realistic masks have often been confronted with the problem of safety for the wearer.
The concept of 3D printing a face is not going to happen anytime soon in Europe. However, apart from the fact that it is not the replica of a whole body, the concept is not really far from the idea of a 3D printed figurine.
“Mask shops in Venice probably do not buy or sell faces. But that is something that’s likely to happen in fantasy stories. I thought it would be fun to actually do that,” the artist told Reuters.
Okawara ensured that the demand for realistic and slightly creepy masks will increase, especially for those who see them as accessories for dress-up parties, theatrical stage performances or simply art pieces.
Starting this quarter, the masks will be on sale at the artist’s Tokyo shop for about 950$ (774€). In the long-run, he will expand the range of this portfolio to include non-Japanese faces as well.
Source: Reuters. Remember, you can post free of charge job opportunities in the AM Industry on 3D ADEPT Media or look for a job via our job board. Make sure to follow us on our social networks and subscribe to our weekly newsletter : Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn & Instagram ! If you want to be featured in the next issue of our digital magazine or if you hear a story that needs to be heard, make sure to send it to contact@3dadept.com