French artist Raphaël Emine has developed a series of 3D-printed ceramic structures designed to provide shelter for insects and small wildlife. The project, called Les Utopies Entomologiques, combines artistic design with ecological purpose through the use of advanced ceramic 3D printing technology from WASP.
The ceramic structures feature intricate patterns inspired by natural formations, including honeycomb cells, spider webs, and mineral structures. These designs incorporate various architectural elements such as tunnels, galleries, and balconies that create functional spaces for small creatures to inhabit. The porous nature of the ceramic material helps the structures integrate naturally into outdoor environments.
Two installations have been completed so far: Utopies Entomologiques I in 2023 and Utopies Entomologiques II in 2024. The pieces were manufactured using WASP’s 40100 LDM and Delta WASP 2040 Clay printing systems, demonstrating the practical application of ceramic 3D printing technology for outdoor installations.
The structures are currently installed in the palm grove of Parc Maison Blanche in Marseille, where they can be either free-standing or suspended from trees. Initial observations indicate that various insects and small wildlife have begun utilizing these artificial habitats as intended.
The design accommodates different life cycles of insects, including metamorphosis stages and seasonal changes. These functional aspects are integrated into the aesthetic design, which draws from baroque and biomorphic influences to create structures that serve both as art installations and practical wildlife shelters.
Source: yankodesign.com