Two University of Cincinnati graduates, Clay Brown and Liam Merkle, stepped up to create a one-of-a-kind project for the Dragonfly Foundation to showcase during BLINK, as reported by Local 12.
Known for their innovative industrial and fashion design work, Brown and Merkle volunteered their time to bring vibrant, illuminated dragonflies and flowers to life, working against a tight deadline to ensure everything was ready for the parade.
The UC Groundfloor Makerspace is a 12,000-square-foot prototyping and fabrication space that houses equipment ranging from basic hand tools to advanced manufacturing.
Lucy Weaver, a UC industrial design graduate who coordinates unit operations for the Makerspace, assists community members in accessing the space along with students working on their capstones.
"Clay and Liam are great examples of recent graduates making use of the skills they learned at DAAP, utilizing the tools and equipment in the Makerspace to further their careers," Weaver said.
Left: Clay Brown and Liam Merkle work inside the Ground Floor Makerspace. Right: Liam Merkle wears the illuminated dragonfly wings. Photos/Diana Lara
Together, the pair worked tirelessly to design and execute 15 illuminated 3-feet-by-3-feet dragonflies and five flowers. These eye-catching creations were mounted on poles and attached to backpacks as they lit up the night, adding a magical glow to the BLINK parade. Brown and Merkle dedicated every minute of their time to ensuring their contribution to the Dragonfly Foundation's presence at BLINK was ready.
"We were excited to be a part of this project, especially because it's such a great cause," said Merkle.
The BLINK festival, one of Cincinnati's most popular art and light festivals, is a celebration that transforms the city into an outdoor gallery of interactive light displays, murals and performances.
Brown and Merkle delivered the final designs just in time for the parade, demonstrating their commitment not only to their craft but also to giving back to the community. The Dragonfly Foundation was extremely grateful for the quality of work and the time the grads invested in the project.
You can view the finished wings on Dragonfly's Facebook and Instagram pages.
Featured image at top: Clay Brown points out the work that went into the dragonfly backpack worn by Liam Merkle. Photo/Diana Lara
