Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1500164
The octagonal handles of the pickaxes inspired by volcanic organ pipes, the crystalline cluster like compositions of the shape plains and veins of precious metals running through the script chiseled in the iron. Prince Durin carries a dagger with a natural vein of gold running through the handle, coming to a raw nugget at the pommel. The nugget in its original form, unshaped, as if the perfect in the eyes of the dwarf. It was a wonderful opportunity to revisit the world of Middle-earth from a new angle, a different period, in the history and a fresh perspective. Times have changed significantly in the 20-plus years since Jackson's original movies. Over that period, Richard has driven Weta to the forefront of harnessing new techniques and exploring new opportunities presented in emerging technologies. A new type of artist has emerged as a result. The likes of Lans Hansen, combining understanding of design intention and sculptural form with the latest technology, pushing the boundaries of what's possible in manufacture. With the rise of 3D modelling, printing and robotic C&C milling providing opportunity for artists like Kathryn Parr to model a seamless, flawlessly beautiful glaive fit for Gil-galad. To then be milled from single billet of aircraft grade aluminium by robotics engineer Jordan Thomas on a machine he constructed himself. The Glaive Aeglos, meaning "snow point" or "icicle" in Sindarin, a weapon which Wayne Yip (director/producer) described as having the form of a wisp of smoke. New paint systems were developed by Jules German and his team that allowed our stunt-friendly rubber weapons to not only stand up the demands of high-resolution digital photography but also be robust enough to withstand clashing together in stunt action. Material and technical developments in molding and casting that allowed Will Toft and Brian Stendebach's teams to produce enormous quantities of weaponry to populate the world. None of this is possible without the clear communication and organization skill of Danielle Prestidge's Weta production team, and Tasha Guillot in the Art Department. Keeping the information flowing and chaos at bay for a new generation of artists and technicians collaborating to lift the craft to new levels and we hope, doing justice to the world of Middle-earth. ADG F. DWARVEN GUARD AXE. MODELLED BY JACK TAYLOR IN RHINO. G. DWARVEN GUARD AXE. DETAIL. PHOTO. H. DWARVEN GUARD AXES IN PROCESS. PHOTO. I. TUOR'S SHIELD. CREATED IN PHOTOSHOP BY TAHIWI TRENOR-HUNT, JEREMY HANNA AND VAUGHAN FLANAGAN J. TUOR'S SHIELD. MODELLED BY KIERAN SMITH IN RHINO AND ZBRUSH. PHOTO. I J G H F