Derry man aiming to create largest 3D printed sculpture in the world

The sculpture will pay tribute to the tireless work of nurses and healthcare workers during the pandemic.

It will be worked on by 3D printers across the globe, who stepped in when there was a shortage of PPE. Now that situation is resolved,they have spare time on their printers to take on a giant sculpture project.

Ciaran Irvine, who got into 3D printing a number of years ago, set up Educate 3D Printing to teach children at schools across the city how to use the cutting edge technology.

The Galliagh man has had two siblings working on the frontline during the pandemic and he decided to put his skills to use making protective equipment when he became aware of a shortage in supply.

Ciaran made thousands of face shields which were donated free of charge to care homes, hospitals and hospices.

Now he has joined up with 125 people in 24 different countries in an attempt to created the world’s largest 3D printed sculpture.

“Myself and Daniel Hubbard, from Florida, are leading the project,” he said. “We met online and, when we decided to do the sculpture, we sent out invitations to 3D printers across the world.”

The group plan to make a 3D printed sculpture of a nurse wearing PPE and, when it is finished, it will be located at Ebrington Square in the city’s Waterside.

Local nurse and Ciaran’s friend Nicola Chambers is the model for the sculpture.

He says the sculpture will recognise the contribution of health workers during the pandemic as he is aware of the “stress they carry having to go to work and, then, potentially spreading the virus to their loved ones.”

The current record for a 3D printed sculpture is 3.63 metres (around 12 feet).

However, Ciaran and the rest of the team hope to beat that.

“At the minute, we don’t have a definite height yet, as we need to consult with engineers to make sure it is safe.

“We would like to go five metres high but, because it’s going to be kept outside, safety and weather conditions will help decide the safest option.”

It is hoped the sculpture will be completed by February and that a representative from the ‘Guinness Book of Records’ can visit Derry to confirm whether it has beaten the current world record.

The group have set up a fundraising page to help them raise the funds needed for the supplies and shipping costs of the sculpture.

To donate, visit: https://www.gofundme.com/f/global-3d-print-project