"Embrace the tool on not only what it can do but on the exploration of what more it can do."
Overview
Clark Cheng is a talented and innovative designer with a passion for exploring new methods of design and digital fabrication. He is skilled in a range of software tools, including Maya, Cinema 4D, and Houdini FX, ZBrush, and is proficient in creating visualizations using VRay, redshift, and Unreal Engine. He mainly uses Rhino and Grasshopper as his palette of choice for 3D modeling
Clark received his Bachelor of Arts in Architecture from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and his M.Arch from the University of Michigan. He currently resides in Madison, WI, where he works as a Design Engineer at QuarraStone, where he is responsible for 3D modeling, programming, and operating industrial grade KUKA robots.
In his free time, Clark enjoys staying active through regular workouts and playing video games. He also loves to travel whenever possible. Overall, Clark is a dedicated and talented designer who is constantly seeking new ways to push the boundaries of what is possible with software and technology.
Design Philosophy
"Embrace the tool on not only what it can do but on the exploration of what more it can do."
With the rise of digital fabrication and increase use of technology in our design, we have more of a responsibility to take charge of the craft of our work. The greater control of our quality of "perfection" has led to the creation of the "imperfect perfection" of digital fabrication and design.
In the context of digital fabrication and design, this philosophy often emphasizes the importance of taking responsibility for the impact of one's creations.
One key aspect of a design philosophy centered on digital fabrication is the idea that these techniques should not only be seen as a means of production, but also as a driving force behind the aesthetics of a design. Rather than simply using digital fabrication as a tool to execute a pre-determined design, designers can embrace it as a method of design itself, allowing the fabrication process to shape and influence the final product.
Clark's design philosophy has always been about embracing the fabrication technique into the design and let it be one of the driving forces in the overall aesthetics and structural integrity. His mastery of technical machines, such as the CNC router, 3D printing techniques, and KUKA PRC technology.
Along with the exploration of the tool, Clark tends to explore all avenues of fabrication through tool and material exploration. Many of his projects include the exploration of the limits of the tools and materiality such as, "Toolpath Textures" and "Longboard Field Spin".
Software Exploration
Clark Cheng is always looking for new ways to improve his skills and explore new software tools. He is particularly interested in CAD software, such as ZBrush and Houdini, and has a passion for finding different methods of representation for his work.
In addition to these tools, Clark is currently learning Blender3D, which has become popular in the VFX community and has potential uses in architectural design. He is drawn to Blender3D because of its ability to translate his sketches and ideas into a representation that can be shared and controlled through a series of parameters.
Clark's fascination with CAD software and parametric design has influenced his design process by showing him the efficiencies of using these tools to create complex designs. He is always looking for new ways to use these tools to push the boundaries of what is possible and to create innovative designs that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
