Plan for Displaying at the IMA Show

This week, I’ve developed three distinct prototypes for Project 2 to explore different material possibilities, each focused on the theme of human-plant symbiosis through wearable, biodegradable design. Below, I detail the prototypes, next steps, contingency plans, and my display strategy for the IMA show.

Prototypes:

1. Laser-Cut Gelatin Bio-Plastic Pieces:

   • Description: The first prototype involves creating bio-plastic from gelatin, which is then laser-cut into precise, geometric shapes. These pieces explore the flexibility and texture of the material while integrating plant life. The laser cutting allows for intricate designs, with the goal of creating wearable forms or suspended structures.

   • Techniques Used:

     • Gelatin bio-plastic is made by combining gelatin, glycerin, and water, then heating and pouring it into molds.

     • Once solidified, the bio-plastic is laser-cut into detailed patterns to test its structural properties and flexibility.

     • The aim is to juxtapose cut-out pieces to test how the material holds different forms, with the potential for supporting plant growth within these shapes.

1. Bio-Plastic Weaved Piece:

   • Description: For the second prototype, I laser-cut strips of gelatin bio-plastic and weaved them together to form a flexible structure. This prototype focuses on creating a fabric-like material that can be shaped into wearable objects like vests, allowing for plant integration within the weave.

   • Techniques Used:

     • Gelatin bio-plastic strips are hand cut, then softened and woven into a larger piece.

     • The flexibility of the material is tested by experimenting with different weave patterns and densities to support plant life.

     • The aim is to explore how the bio-plastic can be manipulated into more intricate designs for functional wearables.

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2. Color Composition Testing with Gelatin Bio-Plastic:

   • Description: In this prototype, I experiment with adding color to the bio-plastic by incorporating natural pigments or dyes. The focus is on understanding how color affects the material's transparency and plant-growth potential.

   • Techniques Used:

     • Natural pigments are mixed into the gelatin bio-plastic to explore different color compositions.

     • The material is then cast into molds and tested for durability and compatibility with plant growth.

     • The final goal is to create bio-plastic pieces that are both functional and aesthetically engaging for future wearable designs.

   
   

Contingency Plan (Plan B):

If I encounter challenges with the gelatin bio-plastic or its ability to support plant growth, I will shift to an alternative material—SCOBY (Symbiotic Culture of Bacteria and Yeast). I am currently growing SCOBY in preparation for this alternative, which offers a sustainable and organic material for creating a wearable vest. This vest will feature pockets that can hold plants, aligning with my original concept of wearable plant care.

Contingency Steps:

1. Continue cultivating the SCOBY and ensure it is large enough to create usable sheets for design.

2. Experiment with shaping the SCOBY into wearable forms and integrating plant pockets.

3. If SCOBY proves successful, adjust the project timeline to incorporate it fully into the final design.

   
   
   
   

Next Steps:

1. Finalize all three prototypes, ensuring the laser-cut pieces are durable and functional for plant integration.

2. Continue testing the bio-plastic’s potential for supporting plant growth and refining the weaving techniques.

3. Document the entire making process, including successes and any challenges faced, to prepare for the IMA show presentation.

4. Refine the wearable vest concept, integrating plant pockets and ensuring it is functional and sustainable for display.

   
   

Plan for Displaying at the IMA Show:

• Display Concept:I plan to display the prototypes in a way that highlights the material’s transparency, texture, and potential for plant integration. The laser-cut pieces will be arranged on pedestals or suspended to showcase their intricate designs, while the woven bio-plastic piece will be presented as a tactile, interactive display.

• Manikins (2): To showcase the wearable vests and display how the pockets can hold plants. These manikins will allow viewers to imagine the design in a wearable form.

• Movable Wall: A movable wall will be used to create a dynamic, flexible display space. This can help separate different sections of the exhibition and create an immersive environment for the prototypes, especially if I want to showcase different aspects of the project separately (e.g., one side for the wearable designs, another for the experimental pieces).

• Pedestals: For displaying the laser-cut bio-plastic pieces and other prototypes. These will elevate the prototypes, allowing for a 360-degree view of the materials and their potential for plant integration.

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Sketches and Documentation:Attached are initial sketches for the wearable vest with plant pockets and designs for the display setup for the IMA show.

This plan outlines my approach to the project, ensuring that I meet the deadlines and expectations for the IMA show while also preparing for potential challenges. Let me know if you have any questions or need further details!