Shaping a circular industrial ecosystem and supporting life-cycle thinking
Living Clay: Self-Healing 3D sculptures
Living Clay: 3D-printed Biodegradable Sculptures with Self-Healing Biomaterials
Living Clay transforms agricultural waste into biodegradable 3D-printed sculptures using self-healing biomaterials. Made from clay, rice straw, and prickly pear mucilage with mycelium, these artworks naturally integrate into urban and natural landscapes. As they decay, they nourish the soil, closing the loop of sustainability. A fusion of art, nature, and technology, Living Clay redefines public art as ephemeral, regenerative, and environmentally responsible.
Spain
Regional
Region of Valencia
It addresses urban-rural linkages
It refers to other types of transformations (soft investment)
Early concept
No
No
As an individual partnership with other persons/organisation(s)
Living Clay: 3D-Printed Biodegradable Sculptures Using Self-Healing Biomaterials and Agricultural Waste
Overall Aim:
Living Clay explores the intersection of art, sustainability, and biotechnology by developing biodegradable sculptures through 3D printing with self-healing biomaterials. Utilizing clay, rice straw, semolina, and prickly pear mucilage with microorganisms, these sculptures integrate into urban and natural landscapes while promoting circular economy practices. The project reduces agricultural waste, particularly rice straw, which is typically burned in Valencia, generating pollution. By transforming this waste into artistic and regenerative structures, Living Clay offers a new model for sustainable public art.
Target Group(s):
Local communities, artists, and designers interested in bioart and ecological interventions.
Environmental organizations and municipalities seeking sustainable urban aesthetics.
Farmers and rice producers aiming to repurpose agricultural byproducts.
Research institutions in biotechnology and material science.
Specific Objectives:
Develop and optimize a biomaterial mix suitable for 3D printing sustainable sculptures.
Create site-specific installations in urban and rural spaces to enhance public engagement with biodegradable art.
Raise awareness about agricultural waste management and its potential applications in art and construction.
Foster collaborations between artists, scientists, and local communities to advance biofabrication practices.
Achieved Outcomes:
Prototype biodegradable sculptures successfully fabricated and tested for environmental adaptability.
Engagement with local rice producers to collect and repurpose rice straw, reducing air pollution.
Partnerships with research institutions to study biomaterial properties and scalability.
Public art installations demonstrating the potential of regenerative design, inspiring future applications in sustainable urbanism.
Overall Aim:
Living Clay explores the intersection of art, sustainability, and biotechnology by developing biodegradable sculptures through 3D printing with self-healing biomaterials. Utilizing clay, rice straw, semolina, and prickly pear mucilage with microorganisms, these sculptures integrate into urban and natural landscapes while promoting circular economy practices. The project reduces agricultural waste, particularly rice straw, which is typically burned in Valencia, generating pollution. By transforming this waste into artistic and regenerative structures, Living Clay offers a new model for sustainable public art.
Target Group(s):
Local communities, artists, and designers interested in bioart and ecological interventions.
Environmental organizations and municipalities seeking sustainable urban aesthetics.
Farmers and rice producers aiming to repurpose agricultural byproducts.
Research institutions in biotechnology and material science.
Specific Objectives:
Develop and optimize a biomaterial mix suitable for 3D printing sustainable sculptures.
Create site-specific installations in urban and rural spaces to enhance public engagement with biodegradable art.
Raise awareness about agricultural waste management and its potential applications in art and construction.
Foster collaborations between artists, scientists, and local communities to advance biofabrication practices.
Achieved Outcomes:
Prototype biodegradable sculptures successfully fabricated and tested for environmental adaptability.
Engagement with local rice producers to collect and repurpose rice straw, reducing air pollution.
Partnerships with research institutions to study biomaterial properties and scalability.
Public art installations demonstrating the potential of regenerative design, inspiring future applications in sustainable urbanism.
Biodegradable Art
Sustainable Materials
3D Printing
Circular Economy
Public Sculpture
Key Objectives in Terms of Sustainability and Exemplary Impact
Living Clay merges art, sustainability, and biotechnology to create biodegradable 3D-printed sculptures using self-healing biomaterials from agricultural waste. The project’s sustainability objectives and achievements are:
1. Circular Economy & Waste Reduction
Objective: Repurpose Valencia’s rice straw, traditionally burned, causing CO₂ emissions.
Achievement: Transforms this waste into a sustainable biomaterial, offering an alternative to incineration.
2. Biodegradable & Regenerative Materials
Objective: Develop a fully biodegradable material that integrates into natural ecosystems.
Achievement: The clay, rice straw, semolina, and prickly pear mucilage mix decomposes naturally, enriching soil.
3. Self-Healing & Structural Integrity
Objective: Enhance the stability of biodegradable sculptures through self-repair mechanisms.
Achievement: Prickly pear mucilage repairs microfractures, while microorganisms mineralize calcium, reinforcing the structure.
4. Sustainable Public Art & Awareness
Objective: Introduce ephemeral sculptures that harmonize with urban and natural landscapes.
Achievement: These artworks beautify spaces, educate the public, and promote eco-conscious design.
5. Scalable & Replicable Impact
Objective: Create a scalable model adaptable to different regions and agricultural waste types.
Achievement: The process is flexible for varied climates and materials, expanding sustainable art globally.
Exemplary Sustainability Model
Living Clay sets a new standard for sustainable public art, reducing waste, lowering emissions, and fostering ecological awareness. Its replicable framework can inspire architecture, urban design, and material innovation worldwide.
Living Clay merges art, sustainability, and biotechnology to create biodegradable 3D-printed sculptures using self-healing biomaterials from agricultural waste. The project’s sustainability objectives and achievements are:
1. Circular Economy & Waste Reduction
Objective: Repurpose Valencia’s rice straw, traditionally burned, causing CO₂ emissions.
Achievement: Transforms this waste into a sustainable biomaterial, offering an alternative to incineration.
2. Biodegradable & Regenerative Materials
Objective: Develop a fully biodegradable material that integrates into natural ecosystems.
Achievement: The clay, rice straw, semolina, and prickly pear mucilage mix decomposes naturally, enriching soil.
3. Self-Healing & Structural Integrity
Objective: Enhance the stability of biodegradable sculptures through self-repair mechanisms.
Achievement: Prickly pear mucilage repairs microfractures, while microorganisms mineralize calcium, reinforcing the structure.
4. Sustainable Public Art & Awareness
Objective: Introduce ephemeral sculptures that harmonize with urban and natural landscapes.
Achievement: These artworks beautify spaces, educate the public, and promote eco-conscious design.
5. Scalable & Replicable Impact
Objective: Create a scalable model adaptable to different regions and agricultural waste types.
Achievement: The process is flexible for varied climates and materials, expanding sustainable art globally.
Exemplary Sustainability Model
Living Clay sets a new standard for sustainable public art, reducing waste, lowering emissions, and fostering ecological awareness. Its replicable framework can inspire architecture, urban design, and material innovation worldwide.
Key Objectives in Aesthetics and Quality of Experience
Living Clay redefines the relationship between art, nature, and technology by creating biodegradable 3D-printed sculptures that blend into urban and natural spaces. The project’s key aesthetic and experiential objectives are:
1. Organic and Parametric Design Inspired by Nature
Objective: Develop sculptures that reflect natural forms, ensuring seamless environmental integration.
Achievement: Using parametric and organic design, the sculptures mimic corals, termite mounds, and plant structures, creating fluid, biomimetic forms that enhance their surroundings.
2. Sensory and Emotional Connection
Objective: Create an immersive aesthetic that engages public perception and interaction.
Achievement: The sculptures’ tactile, porous textures invite exploration, while their gradual biodegradation tells a living story of transformation.
3. Cultural and Ecological Awareness
Objective: Use public art to highlight sustainability and waste reutilization.
Achievement: The project turns agricultural waste into artistic interventions, sparking environmental dialogue.
4. Integration in Public Spaces
Objective: Improve urban and natural environments with ephemeral sculptures.
Achievement: Designed to naturally decompose, they redefine monumentality, offering a transient yet impactful presence.
5. Exemplary Sustainable Aesthetics
Living Clay challenges traditional permanence in sculpture, proving that biodegradable materials, parametric design, and ecological awareness can reshape public art globally.
Living Clay redefines the relationship between art, nature, and technology by creating biodegradable 3D-printed sculptures that blend into urban and natural spaces. The project’s key aesthetic and experiential objectives are:
1. Organic and Parametric Design Inspired by Nature
Objective: Develop sculptures that reflect natural forms, ensuring seamless environmental integration.
Achievement: Using parametric and organic design, the sculptures mimic corals, termite mounds, and plant structures, creating fluid, biomimetic forms that enhance their surroundings.
2. Sensory and Emotional Connection
Objective: Create an immersive aesthetic that engages public perception and interaction.
Achievement: The sculptures’ tactile, porous textures invite exploration, while their gradual biodegradation tells a living story of transformation.
3. Cultural and Ecological Awareness
Objective: Use public art to highlight sustainability and waste reutilization.
Achievement: The project turns agricultural waste into artistic interventions, sparking environmental dialogue.
4. Integration in Public Spaces
Objective: Improve urban and natural environments with ephemeral sculptures.
Achievement: Designed to naturally decompose, they redefine monumentality, offering a transient yet impactful presence.
5. Exemplary Sustainable Aesthetics
Living Clay challenges traditional permanence in sculpture, proving that biodegradable materials, parametric design, and ecological awareness can reshape public art globally.
Key Objectives in Terms of Inclusion and Exemplary Impact
Living Clay fosters inclusion through accessibility, affordability, and community participation. Its biodegradable 3D-printed sculptures serve as artistic interventions and tools for social engagement.
1. Accessible Public Art
Sculptures are placed in open, pedestrian-friendly spaces, ensuring accessibility for all. Their organic, parametric forms invite tactile exploration, making them inclusive for visually impaired individuals.
2. Affordability & Local Materials
By repurposing agricultural waste like rice straw, Living Clay lowers costs, making bio-based public art feasible for diverse communities without expensive industrial processes.
3. Community Participation
Workshops engage residents, artists, and students in sculpture design and biomaterial learning. This participatory approach fosters social cohesion and empowers communities in shaping their public spaces.
4. Open Knowledge Sharing
Living Clay promotes an open-source model, sharing research on biomaterials and fabrication. This allows communities and artists to replicate and adapt the process worldwide.
5. New Societal Models
By integrating natural processes into urban design, the project introduces a regenerative approach where biodegradable sculptures decompose, enriching the environment and redefining the relationship between art and nature.
Exemplary Inclusion Model
Living Clay merges sustainability, accessibility, and community participation in a single framework. It offers an equitable, low-cost alternative to traditional public art, fostering education and engagement while promoting bio-based, inclusive urban and rural spaces.
Living Clay fosters inclusion through accessibility, affordability, and community participation. Its biodegradable 3D-printed sculptures serve as artistic interventions and tools for social engagement.
1. Accessible Public Art
Sculptures are placed in open, pedestrian-friendly spaces, ensuring accessibility for all. Their organic, parametric forms invite tactile exploration, making them inclusive for visually impaired individuals.
2. Affordability & Local Materials
By repurposing agricultural waste like rice straw, Living Clay lowers costs, making bio-based public art feasible for diverse communities without expensive industrial processes.
3. Community Participation
Workshops engage residents, artists, and students in sculpture design and biomaterial learning. This participatory approach fosters social cohesion and empowers communities in shaping their public spaces.
4. Open Knowledge Sharing
Living Clay promotes an open-source model, sharing research on biomaterials and fabrication. This allows communities and artists to replicate and adapt the process worldwide.
5. New Societal Models
By integrating natural processes into urban design, the project introduces a regenerative approach where biodegradable sculptures decompose, enriching the environment and redefining the relationship between art and nature.
Exemplary Inclusion Model
Living Clay merges sustainability, accessibility, and community participation in a single framework. It offers an equitable, low-cost alternative to traditional public art, fostering education and engagement while promoting bio-based, inclusive urban and rural spaces.
Citizen Involvement and Impact on the Project
Living Clay actively involves citizens and civil society, fostering co-creation, education, and ecological awareness through participatory design and biomaterial innovation.
1. Community Co-Creation
Workshops engage residents, artists, and students in the design and fabrication of sculptures. Participants experiment with biomaterials, shaping pieces that reflect local identities and needs.
2. Environmental Awareness
By repurposing rice straw, a common waste product in Valencia, Living Clay educates communities on sustainable material use. Citizens witness waste transformation into art, fostering eco-consciousness.
3. Inclusive Public Spaces
The project integrates sculptures into urban and rural environments, creating accessible and engaging public spaces. Their organic, parametric designs invite interaction, making them inclusive for diverse audiences.
4. Open Knowledge and Replication
Living Clay shares its methodologies openly, allowing communities to replicate and adapt the process. This knowledge-sharing strengthens local creative industries and promotes sustainable urbanism.
5. Impact on the Project
Citizen involvement has shaped the project’s evolution, refining biomaterial mixtures based on user feedback and ensuring artistic relevance. Community input has led to the development of site-specific sculptures tailored to different environments.
Exemplary Model of Engagement
Living Clay demonstrates how art, sustainability, and public participation can merge, empowering citizens to co-create ecological artworks that enhance shared spaces, foster local identity, and redefine urban aesthetics.
Living Clay actively involves citizens and civil society, fostering co-creation, education, and ecological awareness through participatory design and biomaterial innovation.
1. Community Co-Creation
Workshops engage residents, artists, and students in the design and fabrication of sculptures. Participants experiment with biomaterials, shaping pieces that reflect local identities and needs.
2. Environmental Awareness
By repurposing rice straw, a common waste product in Valencia, Living Clay educates communities on sustainable material use. Citizens witness waste transformation into art, fostering eco-consciousness.
3. Inclusive Public Spaces
The project integrates sculptures into urban and rural environments, creating accessible and engaging public spaces. Their organic, parametric designs invite interaction, making them inclusive for diverse audiences.
4. Open Knowledge and Replication
Living Clay shares its methodologies openly, allowing communities to replicate and adapt the process. This knowledge-sharing strengthens local creative industries and promotes sustainable urbanism.
5. Impact on the Project
Citizen involvement has shaped the project’s evolution, refining biomaterial mixtures based on user feedback and ensuring artistic relevance. Community input has led to the development of site-specific sculptures tailored to different environments.
Exemplary Model of Engagement
Living Clay demonstrates how art, sustainability, and public participation can merge, empowering citizens to co-create ecological artworks that enhance shared spaces, foster local identity, and redefine urban aesthetics.
Stakeholder Engagement and Added Value
Living Clay collaborates with key stakeholders at various levels to ensure sustainability, innovation, and public impact. These partnerships provide expertise, materials, and community engagement, strengthening the project's ecological and artistic value.
Local Level:
Espai Local supports the project as a creative incubator, hosting workshops and exhibitions.
Banco de Paja de Arroz de la Albufera supplies reclaimed rice straw, preventing waste and reducing emissions.
La Casa Verda promotes environmental education and sustainability advocacy through talks and events.
FabLab Valencia provides digital fabrication tools and expertise in optimizing 3D-printed biomaterials.
Pluto, an artist coworking space linked to the huerta valenciana, fosters interdisciplinary collaboration, connecting the project with the local creative scene.
Regional & National Level:
Universidad Politécnica de Valencia, through the Instituto de Diseño para la Fabricación y Producción Automatizada (IDF), supports research on biomaterials and digital fabrication.
Escuela Superior de Cerámica de Manises contributes expertise in 3D ceramic printing, enhancing material properties and artistic applications.
Public institutions collaborate on site-specific installations, integrating biodegradable sculptures into urban and rural landscapes.
European Level:
The project aligns with EU sustainability policies, offering a replicable model for waste reuse and ecological urban design.
Participation in international networks fosters knowledge exchange on biomaterials, parametric design, and sustainable art.
Added Value:
These partnerships ensure Living Clay’s environmental and social impact, combining scientific research, digital fabrication, and artistic expression to develop a scalable, eco-conscious model for urban and natural spaces.
Living Clay collaborates with key stakeholders at various levels to ensure sustainability, innovation, and public impact. These partnerships provide expertise, materials, and community engagement, strengthening the project's ecological and artistic value.
Local Level:
Espai Local supports the project as a creative incubator, hosting workshops and exhibitions.
Banco de Paja de Arroz de la Albufera supplies reclaimed rice straw, preventing waste and reducing emissions.
La Casa Verda promotes environmental education and sustainability advocacy through talks and events.
FabLab Valencia provides digital fabrication tools and expertise in optimizing 3D-printed biomaterials.
Pluto, an artist coworking space linked to the huerta valenciana, fosters interdisciplinary collaboration, connecting the project with the local creative scene.
Regional & National Level:
Universidad Politécnica de Valencia, through the Instituto de Diseño para la Fabricación y Producción Automatizada (IDF), supports research on biomaterials and digital fabrication.
Escuela Superior de Cerámica de Manises contributes expertise in 3D ceramic printing, enhancing material properties and artistic applications.
Public institutions collaborate on site-specific installations, integrating biodegradable sculptures into urban and rural landscapes.
European Level:
The project aligns with EU sustainability policies, offering a replicable model for waste reuse and ecological urban design.
Participation in international networks fosters knowledge exchange on biomaterials, parametric design, and sustainable art.
Added Value:
These partnerships ensure Living Clay’s environmental and social impact, combining scientific research, digital fabrication, and artistic expression to develop a scalable, eco-conscious model for urban and natural spaces.
Interdisciplinary Approach and Knowledge Exchange
Living Clay integrates multiple disciplines, fostering collaboration between science, technology, design, and environmental studies to develop biodegradable 3D-printed sculptures using self-healing biomaterials.
Key Disciplines and Knowledge Fields:
Biotechnology & Material Science – Research on self-healing properties of biomaterials, focusing on how microorganisms contribute to calcium mineralization and material reinforcement.
Ceramic & Digital Fabrication – Development of 3D printing techniques with clay and natural additives, integrating traditional ceramic knowledge with advanced fabrication methods.
Sustainable Design & Architecture – Exploration of parametric and organic forms to create structures that integrate harmoniously into urban and natural landscapes.
Environmental Science & Circular Economy – Repurposing agricultural waste, such as rice straw, into biomaterials to reduce CO₂ emissions and promote sustainable resource use.
Art & Cultural Innovation – Engagement with creative communities to ensure public accessibility, fostering participation through exhibitions, workshops, and artistic interventions.
Collaborative Interactions & Added Value
Experts from these fields work together, combining traditional ceramics knowledge with cutting-edge fabrication methods. Scientists optimize the material’s self-healing properties, while designers apply computational techniques to create complex, biodegradable forms. Cultural institutions and creative hubs facilitate engagement, embedding the project in the local community.
This transdisciplinary approach not only enhances material and design innovation but also positions Living Clay as a model for sustainable art, bridging scientific research, ecological responsibility, and artistic expression.
Living Clay integrates multiple disciplines, fostering collaboration between science, technology, design, and environmental studies to develop biodegradable 3D-printed sculptures using self-healing biomaterials.
Key Disciplines and Knowledge Fields:
Biotechnology & Material Science – Research on self-healing properties of biomaterials, focusing on how microorganisms contribute to calcium mineralization and material reinforcement.
Ceramic & Digital Fabrication – Development of 3D printing techniques with clay and natural additives, integrating traditional ceramic knowledge with advanced fabrication methods.
Sustainable Design & Architecture – Exploration of parametric and organic forms to create structures that integrate harmoniously into urban and natural landscapes.
Environmental Science & Circular Economy – Repurposing agricultural waste, such as rice straw, into biomaterials to reduce CO₂ emissions and promote sustainable resource use.
Art & Cultural Innovation – Engagement with creative communities to ensure public accessibility, fostering participation through exhibitions, workshops, and artistic interventions.
Collaborative Interactions & Added Value
Experts from these fields work together, combining traditional ceramics knowledge with cutting-edge fabrication methods. Scientists optimize the material’s self-healing properties, while designers apply computational techniques to create complex, biodegradable forms. Cultural institutions and creative hubs facilitate engagement, embedding the project in the local community.
This transdisciplinary approach not only enhances material and design innovation but also positions Living Clay as a model for sustainable art, bridging scientific research, ecological responsibility, and artistic expression.
Innovative Character of the Project
Living Clay redefines the intersection of digital fabrication, sustainable materials, and public art by introducing biodegradable 3D-printed sculptures with self-healing biomaterials. Unlike mainstream ceramic and bio-based projects, which often focus on either artistic expression or material innovation, Living Clay integrates both, fostering a novel approach to urban and natural landscape design.
Key Innovations Compared to Mainstream Practices:
Self-Healing Biomaterials: Traditional biodegradable sculptures degrade unpredictably. Living Clay enhances durability through microorganisms that mineralize calcium, strengthening the structure before decomposition. Additionally, prickly pear mucilage repairs microfractures, extending the sculptures’ lifespan.
Parametric and Organic Design: While most 3D-printed ceramics follow rigid geometric patterns, this project explores organic and parametric forms inspired by natural architectures, such as termite mounds and bird nests, to create structures that blend into their environment.
Circular Economy in Art & Architecture: Unlike conventional public sculptures that use extractive materials (concrete, metal, synthetic composites), Living Clay repurposes rice straw—an agricultural byproduct commonly burned in Valencia—reducing emissions while transforming waste into art.
Ephemeral, Site-Specific Art for Urban & Rural Spaces: Mainstream urban design prioritizes permanence. Living Clay proposes a new model of biodegradable, evolving sculptures that enhance spaces while naturally integrating back into ecosystems.
By bridging biotechnology, digital fabrication, and environmental sustainability, Living Clay establishes a groundbreaking framework for regenerative public art, setting a precedent for future urban and ecological interventions.
Living Clay redefines the intersection of digital fabrication, sustainable materials, and public art by introducing biodegradable 3D-printed sculptures with self-healing biomaterials. Unlike mainstream ceramic and bio-based projects, which often focus on either artistic expression or material innovation, Living Clay integrates both, fostering a novel approach to urban and natural landscape design.
Key Innovations Compared to Mainstream Practices:
Self-Healing Biomaterials: Traditional biodegradable sculptures degrade unpredictably. Living Clay enhances durability through microorganisms that mineralize calcium, strengthening the structure before decomposition. Additionally, prickly pear mucilage repairs microfractures, extending the sculptures’ lifespan.
Parametric and Organic Design: While most 3D-printed ceramics follow rigid geometric patterns, this project explores organic and parametric forms inspired by natural architectures, such as termite mounds and bird nests, to create structures that blend into their environment.
Circular Economy in Art & Architecture: Unlike conventional public sculptures that use extractive materials (concrete, metal, synthetic composites), Living Clay repurposes rice straw—an agricultural byproduct commonly burned in Valencia—reducing emissions while transforming waste into art.
Ephemeral, Site-Specific Art for Urban & Rural Spaces: Mainstream urban design prioritizes permanence. Living Clay proposes a new model of biodegradable, evolving sculptures that enhance spaces while naturally integrating back into ecosystems.
By bridging biotechnology, digital fabrication, and environmental sustainability, Living Clay establishes a groundbreaking framework for regenerative public art, setting a precedent for future urban and ecological interventions.
Methodology and Approach
Living Clay employs an interdisciplinary methodology combining digital fabrication, biomaterial research, and ecological design. The structured approach integrates scientific experimentation, artistic exploration, and community participation for sustainable outcomes.
Material Research & Development
Laboratory tests optimized a self-healing biomaterial mix using clay, rice straw, semolina, and prickly pear mucilage enriched with microorganisms.
The formulation was refined for printability, durability, and biodegradability, ensuring suitability for 3D ceramic printing.
Digital Design & Parametric Modeling
Inspired by biological structures, the sculptures use parametric and organic design principles.
Digital simulations optimize geometries for aesthetics, stability, and efficient material use.
3D Printing & Fabrication
Advanced ceramic 3D printing ensures precision and material efficiency.
Iterative testing refines layer adhesion, drying behavior, and structural integrity.
Stakeholder Collaboration & Knowledge Exchange
Partnerships with FabLab Valencia, Banco de Paja de Arroz, and La Casa Verda facilitate material sourcing, research, and prototyping.
Collaborations integrate expertise from biofabrication, digital manufacturing, and urban sustainability.
Public Engagement & Site-Specific Installation
Sculptures are placed in urban and natural settings to foster interaction and awareness.
The biodegradable materials reintegrate into the ecosystem, aligning with circular design principles.
This approach merges scientific research, artistic innovation, and environmental responsibility, creating a replicable model for sustainable public art.
Living Clay employs an interdisciplinary methodology combining digital fabrication, biomaterial research, and ecological design. The structured approach integrates scientific experimentation, artistic exploration, and community participation for sustainable outcomes.
Material Research & Development
Laboratory tests optimized a self-healing biomaterial mix using clay, rice straw, semolina, and prickly pear mucilage enriched with microorganisms.
The formulation was refined for printability, durability, and biodegradability, ensuring suitability for 3D ceramic printing.
Digital Design & Parametric Modeling
Inspired by biological structures, the sculptures use parametric and organic design principles.
Digital simulations optimize geometries for aesthetics, stability, and efficient material use.
3D Printing & Fabrication
Advanced ceramic 3D printing ensures precision and material efficiency.
Iterative testing refines layer adhesion, drying behavior, and structural integrity.
Stakeholder Collaboration & Knowledge Exchange
Partnerships with FabLab Valencia, Banco de Paja de Arroz, and La Casa Verda facilitate material sourcing, research, and prototyping.
Collaborations integrate expertise from biofabrication, digital manufacturing, and urban sustainability.
Public Engagement & Site-Specific Installation
Sculptures are placed in urban and natural settings to foster interaction and awareness.
The biodegradable materials reintegrate into the ecosystem, aligning with circular design principles.
This approach merges scientific research, artistic innovation, and environmental responsibility, creating a replicable model for sustainable public art.
Replicability and Transferability
Living Clay presents a scalable model that can be adapted to different regions, beneficiaries, and contexts. Key transferable elements include:
Biomaterial Development & Circular Economy
The use of agricultural waste in 3D-printed ceramics can be adapted to local byproducts, such as wheat straw, corn husks, or algae, fostering sustainable material sourcing in various regions.
The open-source approach encourages interdisciplinary research on biomaterials for digital fabrication.
Digital Fabrication & Open-Source Knowledge
Parametric design and ceramic 3D printing techniques can be applied to diverse artistic, architectural, and ecological projects.
We will document and share our findings on Wikifactory, an open repository connecting the global maker community, enabling knowledge exchange and adaptation.
Community Engagement & Site-Specific Integration
The methodology promotes citizen participation in co-creating biodegradable sculptures that reflect local identities and environmental concerns.
The approach can be replicated in other urban and rural contexts to foster dialogue between technology, ecology, and culture.
Interdisciplinary Collaboration & Knowledge Transfer
Partnerships between artists, scientists, and local communities provide a flexible framework applicable to different socio-environmental challenges.
Universities, FabLabs, and cultural institutions can adapt the project to their own educational and experimental settings.
By sharing methodologies, materials, and digital resources, Living Clay promotes a replicable, open-access model for sustainable design worldwide.
Living Clay presents a scalable model that can be adapted to different regions, beneficiaries, and contexts. Key transferable elements include:
Biomaterial Development & Circular Economy
The use of agricultural waste in 3D-printed ceramics can be adapted to local byproducts, such as wheat straw, corn husks, or algae, fostering sustainable material sourcing in various regions.
The open-source approach encourages interdisciplinary research on biomaterials for digital fabrication.
Digital Fabrication & Open-Source Knowledge
Parametric design and ceramic 3D printing techniques can be applied to diverse artistic, architectural, and ecological projects.
We will document and share our findings on Wikifactory, an open repository connecting the global maker community, enabling knowledge exchange and adaptation.
Community Engagement & Site-Specific Integration
The methodology promotes citizen participation in co-creating biodegradable sculptures that reflect local identities and environmental concerns.
The approach can be replicated in other urban and rural contexts to foster dialogue between technology, ecology, and culture.
Interdisciplinary Collaboration & Knowledge Transfer
Partnerships between artists, scientists, and local communities provide a flexible framework applicable to different socio-environmental challenges.
Universities, FabLabs, and cultural institutions can adapt the project to their own educational and experimental settings.
By sharing methodologies, materials, and digital resources, Living Clay promotes a replicable, open-access model for sustainable design worldwide.
Addressing Global Challenges with Local Solutions
Living Clay tackles climate change, waste management, and sustainable urbanization through local solutions.
Agricultural Waste & Circular Economy
Global Issue: Mismanaged agricultural byproducts pollute the environment, as seen in rice straw burning, increasing CO₂ emissions.
Local Solution: Valencia’s rice straw is repurposed into biodegradable 3D-printed sculptures, reducing pollution and promoting circular economy principles.
Sustainable Materials & Biodegradability
Global Issue: The construction and art industries generate vast non-recyclable waste, worsening landfill overflow.
Local Solution: Living Clay develops a fully biodegradable biomaterial using clay, rice straw, semolina, and prickly pear mucilage with microorganisms. The material decomposes naturally, enhancing soil health.
Eco-Innovation in Public Spaces
Global Issue: Cities struggle to integrate sustainable, aesthetic urban interventions.
Local Solution: Organic and parametric sculptures beautify public spaces while fostering environmental awareness through biomimetic design and ephemeral art.
Open-Source Knowledge Sharing
Global Issue: The lack of accessible eco-design solutions hinders sustainable innovation.
Local Solution: Our research and techniques are shared on Wikifactory, allowing makers, artists, and scientists worldwide to replicate and adapt our approach.
By addressing these global challenges with locally driven, replicable solutions, Living Clay bridges art, sustainability, and technology for a greener future.
Living Clay tackles climate change, waste management, and sustainable urbanization through local solutions.
Agricultural Waste & Circular Economy
Global Issue: Mismanaged agricultural byproducts pollute the environment, as seen in rice straw burning, increasing CO₂ emissions.
Local Solution: Valencia’s rice straw is repurposed into biodegradable 3D-printed sculptures, reducing pollution and promoting circular economy principles.
Sustainable Materials & Biodegradability
Global Issue: The construction and art industries generate vast non-recyclable waste, worsening landfill overflow.
Local Solution: Living Clay develops a fully biodegradable biomaterial using clay, rice straw, semolina, and prickly pear mucilage with microorganisms. The material decomposes naturally, enhancing soil health.
Eco-Innovation in Public Spaces
Global Issue: Cities struggle to integrate sustainable, aesthetic urban interventions.
Local Solution: Organic and parametric sculptures beautify public spaces while fostering environmental awareness through biomimetic design and ephemeral art.
Open-Source Knowledge Sharing
Global Issue: The lack of accessible eco-design solutions hinders sustainable innovation.
Local Solution: Our research and techniques are shared on Wikifactory, allowing makers, artists, and scientists worldwide to replicate and adapt our approach.
By addressing these global challenges with locally driven, replicable solutions, Living Clay bridges art, sustainability, and technology for a greener future.
Demonstrated Commitment to Implement the Concept in Practice
In the year following the application, Living Clay will focus on material refinement, prototype development, public engagement, and dissemination.
Material Optimization & Testing
Conduct advanced lab tests with Fablab Valencia and the Instituto IDF (UPV) to enhance the mechanical properties and biodegradability of the biomaterial mix.
Collaborate with the Escuela Superior de Cerámica de Manises to refine 3D printing parameters for optimal clay deposition.
Prototype Development & Installation
Design and print sculptural prototypes for both urban and natural environments.
Install pilot sculptures at Pluto (artist coworking space) and partner public spaces to test real-world durability and public interaction.
Community & Institutional Engagement
Work with Espai Local and La Casa Verda to organize workshops for local artists, makers, and citizens, fostering co-creation.
Strengthen collaboration with the Banco de Paja de Arroz de la Albufera, promoting sustainable agricultural waste repurposing.
Dissemination & Knowledge Sharing
Upload research, designs, and findings on Wikifactory, ensuring accessibility for the global maker community.
Present the project at sustainability and digital fabrication events to engage policymakers, urban planners, and creative professionals.
Scaling & Long-Term Implementation
Develop a replicable toolkit for cities and communities seeking to integrate biodegradable sculptures into public spaces.
Establish further collaborations with research institutions, ecological initiatives, and cultural programs to scale the project beyond Valencia.
By focusing on practical implementation and broad dissemination, Living Clay ensures a tangible, long-term impact in art, sustainability, and eco-innovation.
In the year following the application, Living Clay will focus on material refinement, prototype development, public engagement, and dissemination.
Material Optimization & Testing
Conduct advanced lab tests with Fablab Valencia and the Instituto IDF (UPV) to enhance the mechanical properties and biodegradability of the biomaterial mix.
Collaborate with the Escuela Superior de Cerámica de Manises to refine 3D printing parameters for optimal clay deposition.
Prototype Development & Installation
Design and print sculptural prototypes for both urban and natural environments.
Install pilot sculptures at Pluto (artist coworking space) and partner public spaces to test real-world durability and public interaction.
Community & Institutional Engagement
Work with Espai Local and La Casa Verda to organize workshops for local artists, makers, and citizens, fostering co-creation.
Strengthen collaboration with the Banco de Paja de Arroz de la Albufera, promoting sustainable agricultural waste repurposing.
Dissemination & Knowledge Sharing
Upload research, designs, and findings on Wikifactory, ensuring accessibility for the global maker community.
Present the project at sustainability and digital fabrication events to engage policymakers, urban planners, and creative professionals.
Scaling & Long-Term Implementation
Develop a replicable toolkit for cities and communities seeking to integrate biodegradable sculptures into public spaces.
Establish further collaborations with research institutions, ecological initiatives, and cultural programs to scale the project beyond Valencia.
By focusing on practical implementation and broad dissemination, Living Clay ensures a tangible, long-term impact in art, sustainability, and eco-innovation.
