algae-based bioplastic and pigments, developed by the artist

A series of bowls and vessels moulded with algae-based bioplastic, a unique material from algae cultures developed by the artist. Tiny micro-cracks would sometimes form on the rim of a bowl, stemming the removal of the dried bioplastic from their molds. Working directly with the artist, we devised a method of repair that successfully repaired the micro-cracks, using a custom-formulated seaweed-based repair material. This ensured the repair upheld the artist’s ethos of sustainability and recyclability of the vessels, while effectively restoring visual cohesion and structural stability. To develop this sympathetic repair system we:

• tested a number of different commonly used conservation adhesives using systematic scientific experimentation and assessed them according to desired criteria (workability, availability, strength, visual qualities)

• developed a unique mix of seaweed-based adhesive and algae-based and inorganic colourants to match existing materials