In the world of events and celebrations, every detail matters, and when Culture Liverpool approached Made by Make with a unique opportunity to create the key for the Eurovision Key Handover, we were thrilled to embark on a creative journey that brought together talented designers, craftsmen, and innovators. As the project managers behind the scenes, we at Make played a pivotal role in orchestrating the collaborative effort to craft a one-of-a-kind key that would symbolise the essence of Eurovision in Liverpool .
The Design Phase:
Liverpool Artist Neil Keating’s design provided the foundation for our project, and Nicola Strada’s 3D render brought it to life. Their collaboration ensured that the key would not only be functional but also a work of art. The intricate details and thoughtful design elements set the stage for what would become a remarkable piece.
3D Printing Expertise:
To turn the digital design into a tangible reality, we turned to Make resident alumni Johnny Skinner from Tor Designs, a skilled 3D printing expert. Johnny used cutting-edge technology to bring the key into the physical realm, paying close attention to the precision required to make the key both visually striking and functional. The printing of the key took over 46 hours!
On-Site Assembly and Painting:
Make CIC, our creative space, served as the workshop for assembling and painting the key. Our resident maker Ian Currie, worked to put the pieces together and got the piece ready to be painted. This hands-on approach allowed for a seamless blend of craftsmanship and creativity.
The Artistic Touch:
Rachel Smith-Evans from Quirky Design Co, stationed at Make North Docks, brought her artistic flair to the project by adding the finishing touches to the key. Her painting skills transformed the assembled pieces into a vibrant and eye-catching masterpiece, capturing the spirit of Eurovision. Rachel also worked on making the keys carry case an eye catching piece!
Crafting the Brass Ring:
Brittany Kafira, a talented silversmith from Noctua, played a crucial role in the project by crafting the brass ring for the keyring. Working from her studio at Make North Docks, Brittany’s expertise added a touch of elegance and durability to the key, making it a lasting memento.
Innovation Lab Contribution:
The keys were not only meticulously crafted but also strategically planned and printed using our state-of-the-art 3D printers at the Innovation Lab in Make Huyton Village. This combination of creativity and innovation ensured the key met the highest standards of quality and precision.
A Heartfelt Thanks:
Our sincere gratitude goes to Culture Liverpool for entrusting us with this exciting project. The collaboration between talented makers, designers, and innovators showcases the power of creative synergy. We are proud to have been a part of this endeavour, and we extend our thanks to all the individuals who contributed their skills and passion to make the Eurovision Key Handover a success.
Conclusion:
The Eurovision Key Handover project was a testament to the collaborative spirit of the creative community. From design to production, each step was a harmonious blend of artistic vision and technical expertise. The key created for this momentous occasion not only symbolises the Eurovision spirit but also stands as a shining example of what can be achieved when diverse talents come together to create something extraordinary. When you commission Make, we are able to ensure well paid work makes its way to local creatives… and in turn, that ensures the sustainability of the creative hubs we operate in Liverpool, Wirral and Knowsley. It’s a true circular economy.
