Mimaki UJV100-160Plus Shines at Doddz Exhibition with Augmented Reality and Digital Print
Image By Courtesy of HYBRID SERVICES
Manchester, UK – Combining immersive augmented reality environments with exquisite digitally printed imagery, experiential artist Doddz captivated over 200 guests at his biggest solo show to date, "A Different Perspective."
Held in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, the private viewing showcased printed canvases, floor graphics, and 3D artwork, creating a mesmerizing evening for all attendees.
"A Different Perspective was all about offering the opportunity to experience the future of storytelling and provided a rare glimpse into my life and emotions," described Doddz. "Presenting my work on some seriously creative substrates delivered an all-encompassing experience, and it was so powerful to see people participating and engaging with them throughout the event."
Leveraging Soyang Europe’s catalog of digitally printable substrates, Doddz used the Mimaki UJV100-160Plus LED UV printer to create a series of scenes that, when viewed through a mobile phone, came alive as AR experiences.
From animated films to video games, Doddz's work transcended the traditional art exhibition.
A standout piece of the exhibition was a full-color 3D printed piano that came to life with a virtual performance by American rapper Tyler, the Creator. "I constructed the digital artwork for this piece in Blender before Hybrid printed the file on the Mimaki 3DUJ-553 full-color 3D printer," recalls Doddz. "It was one of the most exciting pieces of art—a real game-changer as the centerpiece for the show."
Months of meticulous preparation went into "A Different Perspective." Doddz and his team collaborated closely with application specialists at both Soyang Europe and Hybrid Services. "We used a host of Mimaki’s latest technology to produce the artwork for the exhibition, from the flatbed UJF-3042MkII e that printed the plaques incorporating the QR codes, to the TxF300-75 DTF printer for creating the t-shirt graphics," explained Hybrid’s Application Specialist, Ashley Carr.
Reflecting on the exhibition, Doddz remarked, "During each show that I’ve put on, I’ve had the privilege of seeing the awe on the faces of those discovering augmented reality for the first time. Their reactions when static art bursts into life are the moments I cherish most. Witnessing the initial encounter that people have with the magic of AR art fills me with immense pride and confirms that the more people become aware of its existence, the more they’ll fall in love with it."
Hybrid's Head of Marketing & Business Development, Duncan Jefferies, commented on the collaboration, "When Doddz’ team approached us earlier in the year, we realized very quickly what a unique opportunity it was to work with such a talented and visionary artist. Pairing cutting-edge print and material technology with the wonderful creativity that Doddz incorporates into every piece made it a very special collaboration to be involved with."
Beyond the exhibition, Doddz continues to share digital art tutorials and insights into his creative process on social media and his website, where he engages with followers eager to see more boundary-pushing AR art. "I purposely seek new challenges to learn from and grow. Every piece of my art tells its own story," he says.
Upcoming projects for the artist include a giant mural in one of the fan zones at the Euro 2024 football tournament, as well as further development of his use of digital print. "Working with Hybrid and Soyang Europe was the difference between being the success it was and no success at all," concludes Doddz. "The guidance the team provided, sharing their experience and expertise, is the reason we’re already working on new projects together."
About Mimaki
Mimaki is a pioneer in the development of cutting-edge digital printing and cutting technologies, serving a wide range of industries including signage, textiles, and industrial production. Committed to continuous innovation and sustainability, Mimaki provides comprehensive solutions that empower businesses to achieve their creative and operational goals.
