3D-printed sculpture - a garden gnome brought to life

Lots of fun with a very special pipsqueak

The Kreisvier agency came to Frontwork with a very specific idea for the national campaign “Ärmelhoch” (sleeves up): “We would like a 3D-sculpture of a large garden gnome.” Well, maybe those weren’t the exact words. Anyway, a 3D gnome mascot was made for the client Minergie Schweiz as a life-size statue.

Why all the fuss?

The concept behind the giant gnome? Mythology attributes an almost superhuman power to gnomes – and precisely the same message was intended by Minergie Schweiz. In keeping with the motto “Now, old boy, let’s get this show started!” or perhaps “refurbish and cash in!” Minergie Schweiz raises homeowner awareness about funding from the cantons. The “Sleeves up” campaign encourages people to undertake meaningful refurbishment and construction.

A living dwarf

How you bring to life an oversized garden gnome?
The dwarf’s body size should be a spectacular 1.50 metres. With the pedestal, the “wee lad” is full 2.20 metres high and weights 30 kg.

With a great deal of attention to detail, Frontwork created a compact, prominent plinth with a birch pattern. Placed on a grass carpet, surrounded by cheerful mushrooms which serve as threaded fasteners, the giant dwarf has now found his place.

At first, the printed “dwarf” was grey and pale. The 3D acrylic structure was sanded thoroughly and smoothed with great care before painting.

Nerds and pointed hats

Creating a sculpture based on an illustration can have its pitfalls: A highly motivated professional animation team set to work to achieve all the required dimensions, from the pointed hat to the buttocks.
Finally, the “nerds” created the 3D data along with the sets of anchor points. As there was no 3D data available, the amount of technical effort and the data volume was astounding for such a dwarf.

Life is more vivid in colour

Graffiti artist Marco Wyss provided the final touches, hues and distinctive expression to the imp.

A small dwarf with lots of baggage

In order to make his big journey comfortable, our lovely little chap was given a foam-filled carry case on wheels provided with protective pads, because this “wee lad” is going on a grand tour. He has been en route for over a year, visiting trade shows and events in many Swiss cantons.

All together towards the goal

It is not only the gnome that has grown, but also the enthusiasm and elation of the Frontwork team: Working together was a lot of fun. It resulted in bubbling creativity. The project was a great pleasure to realise and stimulated all the participants.

Dwarfs do have magic powers – at least, our dwarf had the power to make us really celebrate advertising technology handiwork!!!