My bioplastic-based, three-dimensional texture was inspired by natural forms and textures, specifically a pupa shape.

Concept & Goals

I decided on a shape inspired by a pupa, envisioning it with branching elements, capturing a “growth” or “emerging” feel. To achieve this, I used bioplastic as the main material, adding tea leaves and ground leaves powder to enhance the color and texture, aiming for a green-brown hue.

Materials & Methods

1. Bioplastic Base: I experimented with two types of bioplastics—one made with a carrageenan base, and the other with gelatin. Each has a slightly different texture and flexibility:
   • Carrageenan Bioplastic: I added ground leaves to this recipe, pulverizing the leaves into a fine powder. This not only added a natural greenish tint but also gave the bioplastic a subtle texture that would blend well with the overall natural feeling.
   • Gelatin Bioplastic: I incorporated tea leaves into the mixture. The tea leaves added a darker tone and a slightly rough texture, ideal for achieving a natural, bark-like finish.
2. Additional Materials: Alongside the bioplastics, I used:
   • Paper Clay: To add structure and help blend the materials together, I used paper clay as an adhesive and supportive medium. Although not entirely solid, it allowed me to attach the branches and shape the piece more easily.
   • Branches: For the 3D structure, I selected small branches, positioning them to give the appearance of growth from within the bioplastic "pupa."

Construction Process

With my materials ready, I started assembling the piece:

• With two newly made bioplastic pieces and ones made during in-class workshop, I cut them to shapes of gaps between branches and layered them since I don’t have a big enough material. Then I carefully attached them with paper clay to maintain the three-dimensional form.
• I found that the bioplastic with leaf powder was especially effective in achieving the greenish, earthy tones.

Challenges Faced

Creating a sturdy, 3D shape proved challenging due to the inherent flexibility of the bioplastic and the lack of rigidity in the paper clay. Adding the branches helped, but I struggled with maintaining a stable form. I realized that to make the piece fully solid, I might need to reinforce it with more durable natural adhesives or even consider using a mold to support the shape.

Another challenge was achieving consistency in texture and color across different materials. The ground leaves and tea leaves each had their own unique effects, and I hoped to use more branches to make the border and texture more interesting.

Reflection on the Final Texture

I’m excited by the potential applications of this material in art and design, particularly in sculptures or installations where natural textures are desired.

Through this assignment, I gained a deeper understanding of how to work with bioplastics and integrate them with other natural elements. I’m interested in further exploring how I can create more structured shapes by experimenting with other natural additives or reinforcement techniques.

Ideally, this is the pupa shape I’d like to achieve.