MakeTank at ABX: Conor MacDonald of the BSA
A conversation with Conor MacDonald
Members of MakeTank are showing off their skills this week with an installation, demonstrations, and presentations at ArchitectureBoston Expo (ABX). MakeTank is a group within the Boston Society of Architects that supports maker culture through networking, discussions, and collaborative design and fabrication.
This is the first post in a series about MakeTankâs exhibit at ArchitectureBoston Exposition 2016.
MakeTankâs showing at ABX highlights the teamâs success at collaborative design that engages participants of varied skill types and levels. Exhibiting alongside industry professionals and manufacturers, their installation, âResults May Vary,â displays the burgeoning maker movementâs innovative approach to design and fabrication.
âImplicit in the conversation around âmakingâ is the significant impact of âdoing,ââ says Sasakiâs Brad Prestbo, a co-founder of the group. âIt has been a rewarding and empowering experience to see Bostonâs community of makers come together through MakeTank to create such a robust demonstration of the power of making and doing.â
The groupâs tour de force is a 10x20x10 foot digitally fabricated pavilion made of flexible composite joinery that will house demonstrations as well as other pieces crafted by the group. MakeTank members designed and constructed reading nook chairs, stools, and display pedestals to house 3D printersâall custom-fabricated for the occasion. A video feedback booth and furniture that responds to sensory input also showcase the groupâs programming and electrical system design abilities.
To see the installation, demonstrations, and presentations by MakeTank, stop by ABX from November 15 to 17 at the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center. Stay tuned for the next post in this series, an interview with Conor Macdonald about MakeTank and the BSA.