haystack labs
PROJECTS | NEW TECHNOLOGY | PARTICIPANTS | 2022 | 2021
In 2021, Haystack Mountain School of Crafts partnered with the MIT Center for Bits and Atoms to launch an innovative research program, Haystack Labs. This initiative is designed to foster synergy among artists, designers, material scientists, machine builders, and coders. Together, they converge at Haystack’s campus and studios, exploring the intersection of cutting-edge technologies and conventional studio craft. Year after year, the program's reach has extended, drawing an increasingly varied community from both craft and digital fabrication spheres. To date, around 60 distinct participants have been at the forefront of novel projects. These initiatives spotlight how artists can deftly meld craft into their work and the ways machine, tool, and software designers can best support creative artisans. Below are the highlights from the most recent event, held from July 8th to 13th, which welcomed nearly 40 participants.
Projects
Electronic Music & Robotics
This project blends technology and music, crafting innovative robotic instruments for unique soundscapes.
Wooden Origami
This project explored the use of laser cutting and scoring oak veneer to create 3D origami-like sculptures.
Biomaterials: OysterClay
This project explored the use of oyster shells to develop biomaterials, which were casted into objects using 3D printed molds.
QaRt
This project explored using generative AI tools to create workflows for digital fabrication and 3D clay printing.
CNC Knitting
3D Ceramics
New Technology
A goal of Haystack Labs is to evaluate and experiment with emergent technologies and machines to determine their overall utility and role in craft disciplines .
CLAY 3D PRINTER
Delta WASP 40100
Presentations & Conversations
Each evening of the program, participants delivered 5-minute presentations about their work and background.
All presentations were video recorded and will be published later this summer.
Participants
Partners
This program is in partnership with the MIT Center for Bits & Atoms.
ORGANIZATIONS
Haystack Labs hosts a diverse group of experts from various professional domains. Below is a list of the organizations and institutions represented by the participants.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Harvard Graduate School of Design
Yale University
Center for Design Research (CDR) at Virginia Tech
University of Warwick
University of Michigan
Forest Scientific
New Balance
Ferrero
Incite Focus
Topologic
WASP
