Su Yang Choi introduces algae-based biodegradable material

 

Slow is a series of artworks by Su Yang Choi, crafted from a new algae-based biodegradable material and shaped using traditional Korean knotting techniques. This biodegradable material, developed by the designer, is free from artificial chemicals and offers an environmentally friendly alternative. It minimizes energy consumption during manufacturing and can be easily reshaped through heating, promoting sustainable use. The design process involves collecting and recycling all leftover scraps, reducing waste, and optimizing resource utilization. The Slow series, featuring a lighting fixture and an ikebana vase, significantly minimizes environmental impact throughout the product’s lifecycle. This approach underscores a commitment to eco-friendly practices and highlights the potential of innovative materials in modern design.

traditional korean knotting shapes biodegradable algae-based artwork series
all images courtesy of Su Yang Choi

 

 

Slow series showcases traditional Korean knotting techniques

 

The first piece of the Slow series by Su Yang Choi is a lighting fixture. The lamp features a four-faced linear braided shape that encases a flexible LED strip. This design, made of algae-based biodegradable material (BDM), evokes traditional Korean architecture, specifically the ten-story stone pagoda of Gyeongcheonsa Temple, through its variable widths and repetitive patterns. The second piece in the series is an Ikebana vase, incorporating the same biodegradable material mixed with coffee grounds for coloration. This vase is shaped using traditional Korean knotting techniques, known as Maedeup, further emphasizing the cultural heritage embedded in the design.

 

‘As a product designer, I believe it is essential to consider environmental issues. The impact of product production and consumption on the environment cannot be ignored, making it crucial to find solutions. This idea was the starting point for my project.‘ states the designer. ‘I contemplated ways to minimize environmental damage even if people continued their consumption patterns, easily buying and discarding products. In modern society, where fast consumption patterns are the norm, I felt the need for a new approach to address this issue.‘ 

traditional korean knotting shapes biodegradable algae-based artwork series
the Slow series minimizes environmental impact throughout the product’s lifecycle

traditional korean knotting shapes biodegradable algae-based artwork series
coffee grounds are used for the coloration of the material

traditional korean knotting shapes biodegradable algae-based artwork series
the lamp features a four-faced linear braided shape

traditional korean knotting shapes biodegradable algae-based artwork series
a flexible LED strip illuminates the design

traditional korean knotting shapes biodegradable algae-based artwork series
Korean knotting techniques, known as Maedeup, emphasize the cultural heritage embedded in the design

traditional korean knotting shapes biodegradable algae-based artwork series
the stone pagoda of Gyeongcheonsa Temple inspires the light’s design | image by Francesco Russo

 

 
 
 
 
 
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Η δημοσίευση κοινοποιήθηκε από το χρήστη SU YANG CHOI (@studio_suyangchoi)

traditional korean knotting shapes biodegradable algae-based artwork series
variable widths and repetitive patterns shape the lighting fixture | image by Francesco Russo

 

 

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the biodegradable material offers an environmentally friendly alternative | image by Francesco Russo 
the biodegradable material offers an environmentally friendly alternative | image by Francesco Russo 
the cardholder is the next piece of the slow series | image by Francesco Russo 
the cardholder is the next piece of the slow series | image by Francesco Russo 
the form can be easily reshaped through heating | image by Francesco Russo
the form can be easily reshaped through heating | image by Francesco Russo
display of Slow lighting fixture at Salone Satellite 2024 | image by Francesco Russo
display of Slow lighting fixture at Salone Satellite 2024 | image by Francesco Russo
material test process diagram
material test process diagram

project info:

 

name: Slow
designer: Su Yang Choi | @studio_suyangchoi
photographers: Francesco Russo | @francescorussophoto, unrealstudio

 

 

designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

 

edited by: thomai tsimpou | designboom