This Biobox is a collection of natural objects gathered by the students. A class of local 1st graders were asked to collect a natural artifact that they find interesting or intriguing.
As an activity, the students (and parents) were inspired to interact with their ecosystem in a new way, with a new lens. As a collection, the box provides insight into the aesthetic elements that fascinate minds, young and old.
For both the students and viewers of this piece, the Biobox hopes to inspire a reconnection with nature.
Dimensions: 18” x 12” x 4”
Found artifacts, reused crate, BPA-Free food grade polys
I am a Certified Biomimicry Professional and continue to explore the practice through emulation of nature’s strategies, an ethos of creating conditions conducive to life and reconnecting with the natural world.
Joining scientists in the field to identify new innovation opportunities areas in form, process and ecosystem design.
Translating innovation drivers from Biological strategies to Deep Design Principles.
Generating new concepts for collecting and sharing biology and innovation strategies
Studying temperature regulation strategies at the San Diego Zoo to inform new packaging for a canned beverages project
Studying drinking mechanics across multiple organisms at the San Diego Zoo to find new strategies for moving liquids
Biodesign workshop for a financial services client focused on identifying ways in which organisms protect themselves from predation. The findings fueled an idea session resulting in new visual strategies for digital and physical security patterns and applications. (Resulting products in development)
A series of design provocations meant to excite discussion around science and design.
Integrating design and science requires an appreciation for the scientific process and how scientists work - visiting labs to learn basic tools and methods helps teams collaborate and communicate more effectively.
I have a deep interest and curiosity in synthetic biology as it has the potential to significantly change the way we manage ourselves and our planet. I remember to balance my enthusiasm with consideration that these emerging technologies can be easily abused. I supported a small team of bio-curious designers at IDEO in generating design provocations after multiple lab visits.
I believe that a deeper understanding of the strategies and phenomena we find in the natural world can inform and inspire new ways to approach our modern-day social and environmental challenges. I am currently (trying) to write a book about it.
Nearing completion
This table was inspired by large-scale modern industrial buildings but built with simple materials and finishes. The natural deterioration of the matured wood inherits a humanistic quality as it communicates a timed existence. The material deteriorates, returning to nature. A simple coffee table as an embodiment of living functionality.
Materials: naturally aged maple top, walnut legs and shelf, stainless steel bars, leather straps and binding
This piece is part of an investigation of hand tools. The study interprets the initial use of primitive tools and re-contextualizes them for modern application.
Materials: Erie slate, Walnut, Leather, Steel
The natural form language stems from the materials found while hiking in Sedona, AZ. This timepiece functions as a representation of time both figuratively and literally. By hanging a ring from the motor driven disc, the circular motion of a traditional clock mechanism is transferred into an ellipse based on the parabolic distances between the bars. The piece also represents time on a larger scale, as the untreated materials slowly deteriorate.
I've been exploring a new medium for relief/carving work. Spackle and shoe polish working together to reveal the skylines and architectural observations. The rough and unpredictable materials provide a contrasting background for the fine linework of the mechanical subject matter. The pieces change as the shoe polish patinas over time. Subjects include the LA Skyline, Sutro Tower and SF Naval Yard.