David R., a 12-year-old participant in the Back to Basics workshop, got a price for his diorama called Green Energy! We were invited by the Institute “Jožef Stefan” to make models with kids in the Back to Basics workshop or other illustrations of devices or buildings related to energy or nuclear technology, and David chose to compete and wone the prize! He built his diorama in two months.
Author about the model: The model shows the use of solar panels (solar energy) in the example of a village and a landscape. To make the model even more interesting, I made working solar panels. If we cover the solar panel on the model with our hands, the light in one of the buildings turns on. With this, I wanted to show the beneficial use of solar energy. During the day, the panels collect energy (electricity), but at night we only use it. I made a terrain from a sheet of Styrofoam, on which I applied paper towels and wood glue. When everything solidified, I painted the entire model in basic colors. I bought mini solar panels in the local store (garden lights) and converted them, installed them in the model, added six LED lights, and connected everything together. I drew the road, paths, parking spaces, and lake on the model. I added a static grass texture to the mockup. I made the forest surface from aquarium filter wool and painted everything together with green acrylic paint. All objects (village and church) are 3D printed and painted. Finally, I varnished everything with clear varnish.
The competition was aimed at encouraging creativity among young people, presenting their technical skills and achievements, and raising awareness of the importance of energy and nuclear technology today. Now his diorama will be part of the Museum of Milan Čopic Nuclear Technology Education Center.
Congratulations David, we are proud of you!