Portal #00

Portal 00 - Sculpture by Baptiste Tavernier
102 x 52 x 17 cm
Polylactic acid, PETG, vinyl
2023

Creation Process

Portal #00 signifies a pivotal shift in my artistic journey, embracing 3D-designed and printed structures as my primary medium. These structures are intricately wrapped in various types of vinyl, a technique inspired by the car tuning and sports car culture. Originally, Vinyl wrapping serves a dual purpose: it not only protects the original paint of the car but also allows for a customizable transformation of its color and design at will.

When I initiated the creation of this portal, my initial concept was to craft a mixed media piece incorporating LED strips, controlled by a chip, to produce a range of light effects. I built the work to its halfway point with that idea in mind.

However, as the project progressed, I found myself questioning the inclusion of powered components in my workflow.

I have always had a kind of love and hate relationship with artworks that utilize electricity. I've encountered numerous captivating pieces featuring LEDs and infinity mirrors; they're visually striking, no doubt. Yet, the moment they're unplugged, the magic is gone! these artworks turn into mundane, lifeless objects – unless the artist has thoughtfully considered and designed for their appearance when switched off... But that's rarely the case.

So finally I decided to drop LEDs and started to look for another medium that would complement 3d printing. I was seeking something that could produce intriguing color effects without relying on power. That's when I found vinyl wrapping.

This fusion of vinyl wrapping and 3D printed filaments has since evolved into my primary medium of expression. My current focus is on perfecting this combination, aiming to create extraordinary works of art. These pieces manifest as both literal and metaphorical portals, serving as Passages to uncharted destinations across time and space.

Doors, Gates, Passages
Multifaceted symbols of opportunities, transformations, and mysteries.
For ages,
A path to life, a path to death, to the unknown.


Doors as boundaries, yet passages are the way.
“Stop!” the gatekeepers will say.
Guardians of secrets, of our integrity at times.


It is up to you; your choice to follow…
Consequences are yours to bear.

Block the light, block the darkness, or let it all through at once!
Dreams or nightmares—what lies at the end of the corridor?

More Passages