Over 100 prototypes, models, artworks and full-scale design projects will be showcased at Robots, Fabrication & Design – the University of Sydney’s biggest design showcase of the year.

Run by the Faculty of Architecture Design and Planning, the exhibition will kick off on 21 August for Sydney Design 2013 and the University’s Open Day on 30 August.

The projects on show are created by Architecture, Design Computing, and Interaction Design and Electronic Arts students and staff at the institution, including 2014 mid-year graduating students of Masters programs as well as those exhibited in festivals such as Vivid Sydney.

The work on show will fit in with this year’s Sydney Design theme, Design Futures, with many projects pushing design boundaries with the latest robotic equipment and use of emerging technologies.

Two and three dimensional objects and digital displays, including novel structural approaches, lighting, architectural models, sculptures and ceramics, furniture design, and digital, interactive and wearable technology, will provide a trail through six studios and workshops.

The robotic and high-tech equipment at the heart of the facilities will also be put to the test, with visitors able to sample a cocktail at a baby Kuka robot bar or have their face drawn by the CNC 3 axis router.

Guests will also have the chance to see the big Kuka robot arm carve a light mold; get a 3D print of their head; or pick up a designer gift made on the spot by the industrial laser cutter.

“Robotic and other interactive demonstrations are a highlight of the showcase - with something for all visitors and ages. At the same time, one can see the design capabilities that our workshops offer students, staff and researchers,” said Marjo Niemelä, manager of the Design Modelling and Fabrication Lab in the Faculty of Architecture, Design and Planning.

The 2014 Noel Chettle Memorial Art Prizes will be announced on opening night of the exhibition. Set up in 1978, the annual awards recognise the year’s best student work in the Tin Sheds Art Workshop electives and Bachelor of Design in Architecture.

The official public opening of Robots, Fabrication and Design will be held at the University of Sydney’s Faculty of Architecture Design and Planning on Thursday 21 August, 6pm-8pm. The displays and facilities remain on show from 22-24 August and on Saturday 30 August for Open Day.

Event Details
What:
Robots, Fabrication & Design
Where: University of Sydney, Faculty of Architecture, Design and Planning, Wilkinson Building, 184 City Road, Darlington
When: 22-24 August (opening night: 21 August, 6pm) and 30 August
Hours: 10am-4pm (22-24 August) and 9am-4pm (30 August)