The Tarpon's Triumph

Drawing inspiration from a fossilized tarpon housed at the Wagner Institute of Science, I designed and created an intricate crown. The crown, titled "The Tarpon's Triumph," showcases the physical attributes of the fish - its gills, bones, and iridescent scales. The piece highlights the royal yet delicate nature of the magnificent salt water fish, nicknamed the "Silver King."

My Role

Designer

Project Deliverables

Rhino File
Physical Crown

Timeline

Fall 2023 (2 weeks)

Tools Used

Rhino, 3-D Printing

Research and Inspiration

Moodboard

The moodboard assembles key elements derived from the tarpon, capturing its essence, form, and hues. I emphasize the color palette, blending the aquatic tones that reflect the tarpon's natural beauty. Simultaneously, incorporates imagery of medieval armor, infusing a thematic connection of regal influence.

Creation Process

Rhino Model

I modeled the crown using Rhino software, employing the sweep and pipe commands to bring intricate details to life. I leveraged the print-in-place technique to create seamless linkages, leaving a tolerance between each scale that would later be dissolved in the support removal process.

Simplified Process

Final Model

Finished Model

The finished piece is worn on the wearer's head. Finished with a coat of silver spray-paint and embellished with shimmering stones, the crown embodies the regal allure of the great tarpon fish. The bottom linkages are cast in silicone, molded to evoke a sea-shell-like effect, adding a flexible touch to the overall design.