From 3D Render to Reality: The Story Behind the Suspended Astronaut Sculpture

Armin Hesampour

4 days ago

2 min read

About 9 or 10 years ago, when the studio was just starting out and work was slowly picking up, I was constantly driven to showcase what my team and I were truly capable of. I wanted to create portfolio pieces that pushed the boundaries of sculpture, spatial design, and custom fabrication.

The Vision vs. The Reality of a Young Studio

I vividly remember telling my brother, who has been my co-founder and partner in this journey: "Look, I really want to build a life-size astronaut sculpture suspended in mid-air." From a technical and engineering standpoint, we had no doubt we could pull it off. I knew exactly how to handle the 3D modeling, internal steel armature, and overhead cable rigging.

However, when you start a creative fabrication studio from scratch with no financial backing, time and materials are your most critical resources. When you're busy with client projects, you don't have time for passion projects; when you're slow, you don't have the budget for raw materials. It’s the classic dilemma of any young workshop.

Designing the Suspended Astronaut Sculpture: From 3D Model to Reality

I refused to let the idea die in my head. I told myself: "If I don't have the budget to fabricate it right now, at least I can design it!" I decided to turn the concept into a digital model, adding an illuminated moon-like orb held in the astronaut's hand—serving as both a functional lighting element and a soulful visual focus. For over a month, I spent every free moment and late night refining the 3D render.

We published the design, time passed, and eventually, the moment arrived. A dedicated client discovered the concept, fell in love with it, and wanted it built for their home. My excitement wasn’t just about securing a new commission; it was about finally having the opportunity to bring an idea I had carried in my mind for months into the real world.

3D digital render model of a floating astronaut holding a glowing moon orb, custom concept design by Art of Arm Toronto.

Technical Execution & Installation

We executed the full fabrication process: high-density foam carving, precise multi-point cable rigging, and internal LED wiring. Seeing the sculpture finally installed, casting a soft lunar glow across the room at night, made every late-night rendering session worth it.

The Power of Small, Consistent Steps

Looking back, if I had waited for someone to walk through the door and ask for a suspended astronaut, this piece might never have been created. Small, consistent efforts—even a 3D model created in your spare time—leave a mark. They build up over time until they transform into what we call success.