TEXTILES
This wall-mounted sculpture reinterprets the "animal trophy" by merging human anatomy with sustainable textile craft.
The process began with hand-drawn sketches and a custom mold of my own face to create an organic, anatomical foundation. I translated this form into a 3D structure using natural wool stuffing to build a firm sculptural base. The surface identity was developed through hand-carved block prints on recycled cotton fabric.
For the final finish, I used hand-beading with vintage materials sourced from estate sales to add texture and history. This project serves as a study in "waste-to-wealth," elevating forgotten materials into a high-end art object through intentional, regenerative production.
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Waste-to-Wealth Textile Sculpture
REGENERATIVE RHINO
Process
Iterative Sketching
The project began with hand-drawn concept sketches to map the form's geometry and visualize how patterns would wrap around the physical structure.
Building the Structure
To ensure a lifelike, organic presence, I used a custom mold of my own face as the anatomical foundation for the piece and filled it with natural wool stuffing sourced from a textile salvage yard,.
Hand Blocking
Hand-Carved Stamp
The surface design was developed through a hand block print that I carved and printed myself, experimenting with patterns and textures inspired by traditional textile techniques. After stuffing the Rhino, I hand-beaded selected areas to add sparkle and a bit of history to the design.
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LICHEN-INSPIRED SCULPURE
Bio-inspired sculpture exploring the codependent nature of lichen, an organism formed through the partnership of fungi and algae. Each relies on the others for survival, with the fungus providing structure and protection while the algae create food through photosynthesis.
Concept Work
After observing lichen under a microscope, I created a sculpture using modeling clay, cotton, and yarn layered with glue around a tree branch. I translated the intricate growth patterns of lichen into a tactile, three-dimensional form.
Lichens are fascinating organisms formed through a symbiotic relationship between a fungus and one or more photosynthetic partners. They often grow on tree bark and rocks, thriving in environments that are difficult for other life forms to survive.
Cryptothecia Rubrocincta
Lichen under a microscope
Cup formations of Lichen close up
I was drawn to the vibrant colors and unique cup-like forms of Cryptothecia Rubrocincta, commonly known as the “Christmas Wreath Lichen”.
Final result!
