Zena is an innovative textile artist who has taught herself the process of crafting textiles from roots.
An underwater photographer, Zena has developed a method whereby wheatgrass seed is cultivated in templates carved from beeswax. Over 12 days the shoots grow to 20cm while the roots bind below to form a naturally woven structure that can be turned into functional products such as lighting and jewellery.
Zena’s goal is to learn modern computational design techniques, 3D printing and extractive manufacturing processes to create beeswax casts from 3D printed techniques.
With QEST funding, Zena will attend one-on-one training with master Filippo Nassetti where she will learn computational design. She will also visit a 3D printing studio and CNC factory. With her new skills, Zena will use biomimicry to grow and craft exciting new root-textiles with natural structures. The innovation pushes past the limits of 3D printing alone, pointing towards a new era of programmable, sustainable design and craft.
In the future Zena would like to work on large projects that challenge and promote the material.
