Michelangelo's David Digitized for Expo 2020 Dubai
The Galleria dell'Accademia di Firenze has launched the most accurate digital reproduction of Michelangelo's David, in collaboration with the University of Florence and Hexagon. The project involves scanning the statue with industrial-grade technology to capture both geometric data and texture, producing a digital twin that will be 3D-printed and displayed at the Italy Pavilion during Expo 2020 Dubai. Director Cecilie Hollberg stated the initiative updates data from twenty years ago, aiding future research and conservation. Professor Grazia Tucci leads the reproduction effort, emphasizing the use of systems typically employed for industrial objects like ship engines and aerospace components. The original David remains in Florence, while the copy serves as a symbol of Italian beauty and innovation post-pandemic.
Key facts
- Digitalization of Michelangelo's David begins as first step toward creating a twin for Expo 2020 Dubai.
- Project is a collaboration between Galleria dell'Accademia di Firenze, University of Florence, and Hexagon.
- Hexagon is technical partner and sponsor, providing industrial-grade scanning systems.
- Both geometric data and texture are being captured simultaneously.
- Data will be archived by the Galleria for future studies and conservation.
- Original David stays in Florence; the twin will be displayed at Italy Pavilion in Dubai.
- Professor Grazia Tucci is responsible for the reproduction project.
- Director Cecilie Hollberg highlights the importance for updating twenty-year-old data.
Entities
Artists
- Michelangelo
Institutions
- Galleria dell'Accademia di Firenze
- University of Florence
- Hexagon
- Artribune
Locations
- Florence
- Italy
- Dubai
- United Arab Emirates