Reflecting on the fusion of mycelium and wood in my creative process has been an enlightening journey. The initial curiosity blossomed into a rigorous exploration of the symbiosis between organic growth and crafted material. Embracing the philosophy of Wabi-Sabi, I've found a harmonious balance in the juxtaposition of wood's rigid form and mycelium's unpredictable expansion.
My CRP theme is "Study on the Application of Wabi-Sabi Philosophy in Product Design." I am dedicated to transforming everyday objects into art pieces with a sculptural feel under the guidance of the Wabi-Sabi philosophy, infusing them with new life and profound meaning. My aim is to transcend form-based aesthetics and explore the harmonious resonance among objects, people, nature, and the environment. The goal is to touch the souls of the viewers, provoke deep reflection on the essence of life, the beauty of nature, and the passage of time, and to inspire treasured appreciation for the beauty of existence.
I intend to combine ceramics, mycelium, and wood to create a series of products. These products will not only reflect the simplicity and naturalness of the Wabi-Sabi philosophy but will also mirror the serenity and simplicity of Zen. In studio practice, I believe this approach will balance functionality with aesthetic appeal, emphasizing the natural texture of materials and the marks of time, to create design pieces that are both practical and emotionally resonant, deepening the connection between users and products, as well as between design practice and environmental ethics.
In my project, I have studied and deeply understood the philosophy of Wabi-Sabi as well as the associated Zen thought, and I have critically analyzed the application of these philosophical concepts in modern design practice. I explored how to convey through design the temporal qualities of objects, their natural beauty, and the uniqueness that arises through usage.
The themes and ideas I focused on are:
Aesthetics of Imperfection: Finding and appreciating imperfection in everyday objects, such as preserving the marks of handcrafting in ceramic products, or embracing the natural textures and irregularities in wood.
Marks of Time: Showcasing the changes and stories brought to objects by the aging process, like the natural weathering of wood or the repair of cracks in ceramics.
Integration of Nature and Function: Utilizing the inherent qualities of natural materials in design to explore their functionality, like the growth properties of mycelium and the strength of wood.
Simplicity and Introspection: Emphasizing the simplicity of form by removing excess decoration, prompting users to introspect and experience the use of the object rather than just its external aesthetics.
Through my research and practice, I developed a deep understanding of materials and design and actively explored the use and combination of multiple materials, learning the cultivation of mycelium and the making of ceramics. This process not only deepened my understanding of the Wabi-Sabi philosophy but also prompted me to put these ideas into practice in actual design and production, providing me with new directions and depth in my exploration in the field of design.
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