Plastic Wave: Reimagined Growth
Site-Specific Installation | Recycled Plastics, Wire Mesh, Microgreens | Mixed Media with Digital Extension
Overview
Plastic Wave: Reimagined Growth transforms single-use plastic waste into a living ecosystem. Shaped like a crashing wave, the installation is built from wire mesh, layered plastic packaging, and pockets of microgreens planted in recycled containers. It highlights the tension between pollution and renewal — showing how new life can emerge even within synthetic environments.
The work blends sustainability, education, and community participation. NAFA students contributed microgreen planters, each symbolising personal responsibility and growth. A QR code beneath the piece links to the artist’s digital journal, plant care guide, and environmental resources.
Creative Process
The wave form was created through extensive experimentation with materials — wire mesh for structure, layered plastics for texture, and hot glue for cohesion. Maintaining live microgreens in the gallery posed challenges due to limited sunlight and airflow, so they were nurtured off-site and reintroduced before installation. Workshop participants who faced germination issues were given extra seeds and peat moss kits to replant — reinforcing the idea of care and resilience.
Process Highlights
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Collected and sorted discarded plastics
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Built wave structure with mesh and packaging layers
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Integrated recycled planters with live microgreens
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Conducted student workshops on self-watering planters
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Linked digital resources via QR code
Artist Statement
Plastic Wave: Reimagined Growth is a dialogue between art, nature, and community. By turning waste into growth, it reimagines renewal in an age of overconsumption — inviting reflection, participation, and care for the environment.
Grow Hope Microgreens Planters Workshop
Grow Hope Workshop
A hands-on sustainability activity accompanying the installation Plastic Wave: Reimagined Growth.
Overview
The Grow Hope Workshop engaged students in turning plastic waste into self-watering planters. Combining art, upcycling, and environmental education, it encouraged reflection on personal and collective responsibility for sustainability.
Approach
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Learn by Doing: Participants transformed discarded plastics into functioning planters using simple tools and guided steps.
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Two-Part Creation: Each made two planters — one to take home as a symbol of growth, and one to contribute to the installation.
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Reflection in Action: Personal messages or dedications were attached to each planter to foster connection and meaning.
Outcome
The workshop bridged art and environmental action, showing that sustainability can be both creative and personal — a small act of hope that grows beyond the classroom.
Nature Wellness Workshops
