Building a car from clay

Mike Gasteier is group leader for the clay modelling department at Ford's Design Studio in Cologne, Germany, and an experienced clay modeller.

Originally from Cologne, Gasteier has worked at Ford since 1994. Starting as a hard modeller -- working with wood and synthetic materials to produce prototype designs -- he moved to clay modelling in 1999.

"I wanted to move in to clay modelling because it offered the chance to get closer to the actual design of the vehicle," Gasteier said. "I had training from Ford before starting to work with clay, but you learn so much year after year. The most important thing is simply to have fun with it."

For Gasteier, retaining perspective is another important element when working with clay to create exterior designs. The ability to view a surface as part of the complete design can be crucial.

"All of the surfaces need to come together to form a relationship with each other," Gasteier said. "Sometimes you need to take a step back backwards and view the project as a whole. Maybe even clear your mind by going for a walk for 10 minutes, and then return with a fresh perspective."

Gasteier has worked on many projects during two decades with Ford, and enjoys the opportunity to be involved in creating new vehicles from a very early stage. Among his favourite projects was the development of the Ford B-MAX that offered a new challenge in presenting the sliding rear door. Gasteier also particularly enjoys working with vehicle interiors.

Learn more about clay modelling and Ford Vignale http://bit.ly/Vignale