This segment is part of a larger presentation series titled "The Digital Public History Landscape" created for the fall 2019 Introduction to Public History course at California State University, Fullerton.

"3D modeling is the process of creating a three-dimensional model of an object. Using 3D, it is possible to capture size, shape, and texture of a real or imaginary object." (Source: ARCHICGI)

Some common 3D modeling uses by public historians include replicating and displaying artifacts, allowing hands-on exploration of artifacts, and recreating historic sites.

Example: The Bust of Queen Nefertiti

The Egyptian Museum in Berlin, Germany holds a bust of ancient Egyptian Queen Nefertiti, which was created ca. 1340 BCE. The artifact is on display, enclosed in a protective glass case.

3D modeling allows replicas to be exhibited elsewhere, and allows the artifact to be held and investigate from all angles as a learning object.

Learning Activity

• Go to the Bust of Nefertiti listing on Sketchfab (a library of downloadable 3D models), and experiment with moving the object around with your mouse.
• If you have access to a VR (virtual reality) headset, you can import the object into VR. On the Sketchfab demo, click on the "View in VR" icon (looks like goggles) for instructions.
• On Sketchfab, search for 3D model files on a topic of historical interest to you.

Demo: Printing the Bust of Nefertiti in 3D

This short video demonstrates how the 3D data files for the Bust of Nefertiti artifact are used to create a 3D replica of that artifact.

Demo: The 3D Modeling Process

This short video demonstrates how the 3D files for the Bust of Neferti were created.

Using a Smartphone

This video demonstrates a process that allows you to create 3D models by taking a series of photos on your smartphone, then uses desktop software that stitches those together.

Learning More

• LinkedIn Learning video course: "Introduction to 3D" (available for free to CSUF students, faculty, and staff by logging in through the campus portal)

Featured image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay.