2010 Olympics / Artifacts
Custom Award Fabrication
FOR THE VANCOUVER 2010 OLYMPICS, 3DS IS HONOURED TO DO THE HONOURS: 3DS’ special magic found special application in two very significant artifacts for the Vancouver 2010 Olympics. Both masterfully blend the highest in current fabrication tech with the deepest old-world aesthetics. Throughout the games, the official Olympic Medal Trays were used to present medals to winning athletes. Each tray was sculpted from a block of wood on a large CNC system. Then, 3DS applied laser-engraved text directly to the wood – very difficult, on curved surface – followed by a final finish. Every one is identical in shape, yet with a grain unique to itself. In all, 80 trays were made. After the games’ closing, the trays were given to special guests and dignitaries and have now gone to new homes around the world.
The Terry Fox Award has great meaning for Canadians. Fox was a Canadian hero, a cancer survivor and amputee who, in his 1982 “Marathon Of Hope”, set out to raise money for cancer research by running the entire span of the country, coast to coast. Three of these awards were made and presented to the athletes who had overcome the greatest personal difficulties.
The wood used was Yew, native to BC, a wood that produces a natural chemical agent used in the creation of cancer-fighting drugs. The award itself looks simple and organic, but is in fact a combination of subtly complex fabrication challenges. Using 3DS’ proprietary LuminOre metal transformation process, we created a presentation tray that is literally wood on one side and metal on the other. The metal side bears exceptionally small, very detailed raised text on a radically undulating surface. This tiny raised text is as clear and legible as on the coins in your pocket. The wood side shows a map, tracing Terry Fox’s historic route between Canada’s Atlantic and Pacific coasts. It takes two interlocking trays to show entire route. 3DS is proud and honoured to have been selected for fabrication of these important Olympic artifacts.
Wood Fabricators & Engravers
For over thirty years, 3DS has been creating works that breathe life into urban environments and resort communities around the globe. We understand the art, mechanics and business of effective messaging. Our in-house craftspeople are not only immensely talented, they’re also highly versatile, with the ability to work in many different disciplines and materials.
This eclectic mix of professionals allows 3DS to cross-reference our multiple areas of craft expertise, to create truly original and unique works. For this reason, people come to us for those things no one else can figure out how to build. Architects, designers and exhibitry companies find 3DS an indispensable partner. Our “Design Assist” collaborative process is highly evolved and effective – Artists like to consider us their one-stop resource for actualizing their ideas. Equally important is that we do that in a way that respects and maintains the integrity of their vision.
We also consider the long-term effects of real-world conditions – environment, longevity and wear-out factor – using materials that are compatible with their surroundings and enhance the overall design. You can be certain that any signage, wayfinding system or themed display we create will make a bold first impression and strongly communicate your message. Whatever your need, 3DS will develop a solution that’s unique and effective.
Custom Award & Trophy Fabricator
3DS knows how to work with Artists. We have the ability to realize a singular vision, down to the most exacting specifications, while also delivering on time and on budget. Our integrity and high standards have earned the trust of Artists far and wide and you can be assured we’ll handle your project with the same respect.