Diorama Prototype

For my envisioned information piece, I am aiming to create a diorama. Essentially, a diorama is a 3D model that represents a scene. These are commonly found on a larger scale in museums but are also found at a smaller scale. One of the main reasons why I want to create a diorama is because I think it would be much more informative than something like a board game - if I were to create a board game I would have to carefully think and plan out the layout and what type of game it would be. I also think it would be nice to take a break from the screen and create something with traditional materials.

this is what the second piece sits on

Inspired by carousel music boxes, my diorama is basically a cylinder shape. At the bottom of the base there is a contraption which acts like a lazy susan. The actual model part slides in trough the top and sits on top of the beads.

The beads are added to make it easier for the model to move. I think this is called a bearing.

Bead Material: marbles or (air dry) clay beads

The two scenes are separated by a wall in the middle of the circle. Each half will represent two different states of coral reefs. One will be a healthy, biodiverse, colourful coral reef while the other half will be the total opposite.

To make it more interactive, I am thinking of an option to place/hang items such as plastic, netting etc to 'physically' show human impact on the coral reefs. This way, people viewing my piece would (hopefully) be able to feel some sort of way.

Main Materials for Scene Props: air dry clay, thick thread, paint. *TBC felt, paper/card

Left to Right: base, actual model, lid/top

The diorama will be broken down into three parts: the base, model and lid. The base encases the model, making sure that one side is hidden. The model then sits inside it, on top of the beads to for easy movement. The handle is attached on the top of this piece. Lastly the lid/top has a circle cut out in the middle so that the handle is sticking out. The purpose of the lid is for extra security and strengthens the base.

Materials for Base/Model: thin wood (laser cut circles pieces makes it look neat and clean), corrugated cardboard (or something bendy for curved pieces such as the back of the base, rim of the lid).