2. MATERIALS FROM ROOTS | What is the project about
I am interested in expanding my knowledge to growing materials from roots.
These materials have a texture similar to knitted textiles.
I have studied the works of Diana Scherer (an artist) and Zena Holloway (a
fashion designer). I believe that root material has great potential and I am
eager to explore previously unexplored areas. I have the opportunity to
consult my project with researchers who have contributed to RootSkin - from
soil to soil.
RootSkin - from soil to soil Zena Holloway
The roots of the wheatgrass
plant
InterWoven - Diana Scherer
The roots of the oat plant
3. MATERIALS FROM ROOTS | What have I done
Initially, I planned to work with microgreens which consist of vegetable seeds and
legumes. However, these differ in their root structure from grasses and cereals. I was
studying the root structures of beans and radishes and grass to map the results.
After my initial research, I found that wheatgrass might be the most suitable plant for
creating root structures.
Grass Seeds for
Dry Areas
Black beans
Radish
5. THE SPECULATIVE PART OF THE PROCESS |
Biodesign approaches for fabricating textiles
With the Microknit project, I intend to communicate the message of using
different approaches for fabricating textiles. The roots of plants weave
themselves while looking for nutrition and water, but this process occurs
through human cooperation, who provide the plant with suitable conditions
and respond to its needs. This theme reminds us to pay attention to the
cycles of nature, and in return, nature rewards us. The pattern or shape we
create to make the fabric allows the plant to grow through it.
NATURE AS A CO-
WORKER
Husbandry
principles Natural nature
Designer =
cultivator
6. GROWING LACES | Cultural heritage of lace
The process of growth and the properties of natural materials inspired me to
combine natural energy, modern technology, and cultural heritage. I am originally
from Slovakia but currently living in the Czech Republic. Lace-making holds a
significant place in the traditional folk culture of both countries. I aim to bring a
contemporary and distinctive perspective to this traditional technique, which akin to
root growth, requires patience, care, and nurturing. Nowadays, we often tend to lack
the patience and care needed to achieve our goals. The end product of my work will
be root patterns that I can utilize in the traditional use of lace in the garment industry.
TRADITIONAL LACES DIGITAL FABRICATION
GROWING
ROOTS STRUCTURE
7. GROWING LACES | Cultural heritage of lace
Traditional patterns Digital fabrication, parametric
patterns - contemporary
approach
Wheatgrass
8. CONCLUSION | Steps for the following weeks
I am focusing on wheatgrass in my further research. The whole cycle of
growth and care of the plant is important to me. I am currently working with
wheatgrass from a local source, and I am also considering what to do with
the grass after harvesting the roots.
Wheatgrass root density after 11 days
seeds are germinated in 3 days
9. I'M STILL LEARNING | How to provide the right conditions
Soaking around 12 h
regular flushing
regular flushing
SOAKING
PLANTING
GROWING
HARVESTING
humidity
water circulation
temperature
planting seeds
Cutting roots grass height as a
parameter
Pattern and place of growth
20 °C
10. CONCLUSION | Steps for the following weeks
Currently, I am creating lace samples to test their interaction with wheatgrass
roots. My goal is to combine a few patterns into a final design. This year I
would also like to apply for the open call "Tilling Roots & Seeds" in Barcelona.
THE MOST APPROPRIATE SUBSTRATE
HYDROPONICS ?
UTILISATION OF RESIDUES ?
MOLD MATERIAL ?
HARVESTING &
POSTPOCESSING ?
