Be3Dimensional Innovation Fund Inaugural Recipients to Receive $50K Each to Pursue 3D Printing

Artists supporting artists. That’s what a new grant program, just being put forth by 3D printing atelier Think2Thing, and Ryerson University is all about. Both serious in regards to innovation in 3D, and both based in Toronto, we’ve recently been following the two entities as they have been gearing up to sponsor and host the city’s first 3D printing conference, the ‘inaugural’ Be3Dimensional Conference. Just on the heels of that excitement, the two organizations have now also come together to see that Canadian artists receive their due by way of The Be3Dimensional Innovation Fund.

Meant to support great innovators and budding designers who they see pushing the boundaries in art, medicine, manufacturing, engineering, fashion, and design, the fund will offer $50,000 to two ‘inaugural recipients’ within the arts. These recipients, to be announced by the end of this year, will be Canadian artists of a very select group who are noted to be breaking new ground in the world of 3D printing.

“As an artist myself, I immediately recognized the disruptive impact that 3D printing has on the art community. Photography has moved from film, to digital, and now to 3D form. The Be3Dimensional Innovation Fund is pivotal in providing Canadian artists with the means to experiment with this new medium and elevate art into the next dimension,” said Edward Burtynsky, co-founder of Think2Thing.

3D printing design group Think2Thing is based in downtown Toronto, where they are known for their high-end 3D modeling, designing, and prototyping. Founded by award-winning photographer Burtynsky and designer David Didur, the privately owned atelier uses their talents in 3D printing to work with local businesses, as well as encouraging young designers and artists who are just breaking into the industry.

The funds for The Be3Dimensional Innovation Fund are coming directly from a donation via the Brookfield Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship and Sabi Marwah, as well as Ryerson University, known for their strong focus on both promoting creativity and supporting their community.

“Ryerson University prides itself as an institution that strives to innovate,” said Sheldon Levy, President, Ryerson University. “Through The Be3Dimensional Innovation Fund, we are providing support for exceptional talent who are breaking ground in the application of 3D printing in their fields and giving them the opportunity to challenge current practices. By helping to develop our most talented, Canada can be a true hub of 3D printing innovation.”

David Didur and Edward Burtynsky with 3D printed bell, created from ship replica.

The most applied to university in Toronto, Ryerson puts a substantial emphasis on research and innovation. The university currently educates over 38,000 students being taught and administered to by nearly 2,700 faculty and staff, offering 100 undergraduate and graduate programs. Their Image Centre officials, along with representatives from the National Gallery of Canada be responsible for choosing the first recipients for The Be3Dimensional Innovation Fund.

The artists, to be recognized as those who are ‘best-in-class for showcasing state-of-the-art 3D technology to create innovative and exciting new pieces,’ will receive the $50,000 each in order to continue to create their works in 3D print, which will be on display at the Ryerson Image Centre and the National Gallery of Canada on completion.  Let’s hear your thoughts on this new fund in the Be3Dimensional Forum thread on 3DPB.com.