INTO FOCUS
STEPHAN DUQUESNOY
A kinetic sculpture transforming the artists digital animation into physical, interactive form
- Designed and engineered from scratch for his first physical exhibition showing.
CLIENT & CONTEXT
Digital artist Stephan Duquesnoy approached Matter to translate one of his motion-based digital artworks into a physical kinetic sculpture—his first foray into physical installation. The work, exhibited at TUUN Art Expo in Amsterdam, explores themes of neurodivergence, perception, and alignment.
The project posed several challenges:
How to extract meaningful 3D geometry from animation data
How to engineer a dynamic physical mechanism that could mirror the conceptual rhythm of the digital source
How to balance aesthetics with mechanical functionality and exhibition reliability
SERVICES PROVIDED
Data conversion from digital animation
Digital modelling and prototyping
Mechanical engineering of modular motor system
Custom electronics (microcontroller, sensors, drivers)
Choreographed control software
Fabrication-ready file prep and paint finishing
PROCESS BREAKDOWN
We began by 3D scanning the original Majestic sculpture using a high-resolution photogrammetry workflow. This process captured the subtle surface qualities and form dynamics with fidelity, creating a solid digital base for further work.
We began by 3D scanning the original Majestic sculpture using a high-resolution photogrammetry workflow. This process captured the subtle surface qualities and form dynamics with fidelity, creating a solid digital base for further work.
RESULT & IMPACT
The final work, titled INTO FOCUS, measures approximately 80cm tall and is built with engineering tolerances for exhibition durability.
By designing the mechanics, electronics, and software from scratch, we enabled the artist to move confidently from screen to sculpture—without compromising his conceptual vision.
The project premiered at TUUN Amsterdam 2024 and marked Duquesnoy’s successful entry into physical media.
No manual resculpting
No mold-making
Lower production cost
Faster project delivery
Artistic integrity preserved