Postnatural Prostheses - The Thalassic Mask.

Filippo Nassetti, Architect and Generative Designer at Zaha Hadid Design, and Vincenzo Reale, Generative Designer and Engineer at Arup, design wearable technology through radical innovation by rethinking how technology interfaces with the human form. Their research project explored the face mask in the new global environment and how personal identities have changed in the post-pandemic era. The Thalassic Mask was designed as a symbolic expression of individuality and anonymity with inspiration taken from underwater marine environments, something they describe as “post-natural.”

Nassetti and Reale recreated the design expression of coral reefs found in the ocean and embedded it in their mask collection. The research sought to find the perfect balance between fabric draping and visibility, which required a deep understanding of the weight, rigidity, and geometry needed for the final design. Combined, these factors would influence the pull on the textile and the unique fold for the final facial fit. The design had to be both functional and aesthetically pleasing with an attractive pattern that aligned correctly with the facial features beneath the mask.

The Thalassic design was manufactured using the Stratasys J850 3DFashion printer directly on chiffon fabric. To allow for the free-flowing movement of the textile, the geometrical design elements had to be streamlined to achieve the desired fluidity. This required the perfect choice of textile, design elements, and 3D-printed materials to ensure harmony and curvature with the face of the wearer.

“The Thalassic mask, inspired by the experience of the pandemic and the restrictions of staying at home, celebrates equality by masking personal differences and shining a light on humanity. Fashion has always been a vessel for self-expression and differentiation, and we are excited that the innovation of 3D printing on textile is part of this project.” Kaempfer says.