For this project, we are exploring Bioplastic as a beautiful object. We thought about ways to elevate this material into something that could be considered gorgeous. When we pull something from nature, we are able to look at how sourcing can influence the products of our work. We want to explore how using different waters can change the bioplastic look.
This piece is about re-contextualizing the picture frame. We use them now as ways to store our fondest memories, they take snapshot of time, place, and person. If we replace those photos with sheets of bioplastic, we are potentially able to capture a snapshot of a location, its water composition, and remind the user of a time gone by. A time where we didn't need to have conversations about plastic, the ocean, and confronting our relationship with earth. This is not to say that we shouldn't willingly and excitedly embrace and push forward from where we are, but this frame represents a product of the Anthropocene.
We also ran this as an experiment to see if bioplastic shows any difference based on its water sample? Let's find out!
During the production for this piece we took water from three places: The Gowanus Canal, East River, and Greenwood Cemetery.
We tried two different recipes for this project: Methylcelullose and Gelatin.
Methylcelullose:
First, we tried the Methylcelullose, which required we sift the material into a water and glycerin mix:
After this, we transferred it to a pan and let it dry. It was difficult to gauge the progress on this type of plastic because it was very clear and would actually solidify under a thin layer of liquid. We also recessed a flower into it (which we should have done earlier, because it ended up getting moldy).
This plastic also took a very long time to dry and the softness meant it was super difficult to keep flat. Just to be safe, we also tried a gelatin based bioplastic.
Gelatin:
The gelatin recipe was largely the same. The main difference is that it would turn a yellow hue due to the color of the gelatin itself.