renzo zanetti models
The models displayed in these pages are realistic, three-dimensional reconstructions of plants and animals, produced using various materials. Each specimen has been constructed individually, modelled using wood, paper, cardboard, metal, moulded plastic, expanded resins and vinyl glues. These models are then accurately painted with acrylic colours, and sealed with a protective varnish. We try to use strong and resistant materials that ensure the display’s durability.
The environmental dioramas are composed of various elements including carefully created displays, seabed paintings, natural and artificial materials (rocks, logs, branches and transparent surfaces to simulate water) that make the environments as realistic as possible. An important element is in the use of specimens of flora and fauna.
In the case of animals we try to use natural specimens when available, even if this solution presents several difficulties.
In fact, to be preserved correctly, they need great care and attention because the displays are not hermetically closed, don’t have preservatives and for this reason they can degrade easily and become irreparably damaged. Furthermore, a lot of plants and animals present, by their nature, difficulties in being naturalised and displayed, and in many cases the procedure is impossible. In addition, most species are notably difficult to find; all this becomes an insuperable obstacle if you want to display protected or rare species.
Finally, we mustn’t forget that every naturalised specimen sends out a negative message, its very existence can only be achieved by displaying dead animals in a pose that imitates living animals.
On the other hand, one should keep in mind that the diorama is created as a sort of an academic game, a representation in which the elements of flora and fauna are inserted into an environment where they play an integral part, and expose the many complex relationships which regard the whole living world.
In recent years, the displays of dioramas are becoming almost entirely constructed using artificial materials which are more durable and practical to maintain.
