How can playing video games, pursing hobbies, and using your imagination benefit the world?
Ivan Owen is the Makerspace Lab Manager on the University of Washington, Bothell campus and operates MechMadness Designs, a costume and special effects practice where he creates a wide range of art, but is particularly fond of re-purposing items into post-apocalyptic armor and creating unusual mechanical gadgets and musical instruments. He has extensive experience using 3D printers and laser cutters and espouses the positive effect that these technologies can have on our future. His past work included co-creating the first 3D printable open-source prosthetic hand. This design was released into the public domain and lead to the creation of the e-NABLE open source community which has improved the design and distributed free hands to more than 3,000 people in over 45 countries. Owen’s work has been featured in print, radio and visual media including CBS, NPR, the Ellen Show, NY Times and others. His current projects explore the intersection between art, design, engineering and open innovation.
Owen will be speaking to 3rd through 12th Grade students at St. Paul’s Academy and addressing the Core Commitment of CREATE and CARE as the thirteenth speaker in the series of SPA TALKS (A Platform Where Ideas and Inspiration are Shared). The evening program allows for community members and students participating in the 5th Annual Whatcom County Science and Engineering Fair to attended, if desired. To learn more about programs Owen works on go to: www.enablingthefuture.org
Special thanks to the SPA Talks Committee members: Jennifer Niemur, Andrea Hurtig, and Natalie Smith
