Structured Soil_Organic Permanence
Material experimentation acts as a driving force for this set. Epoxy resin is particularly interesting for its ability to encase a wide variety of substrates, yet drying to a strong plastic finish. When combined with a filler, the textural and color qualities transform. While I tested many successful filler variations, I found that mixing garden-variety topsoil with resin created a provocative visual experience. When smooth it gives the illusion of dark, speckled plastic and when piled roughly, it appears to be a mound of wet earth. It invites the observer to further examine the material and construction. The combination of resin and dirt is paradoxical. Soil is an organic material, yet when it combines with epoxy it becomes a manmade product. As with many man-made products, there is an interest in efficient manufacturing practices for “unique” items. While designing the process for the stool’s creation, I considered ways to produce variations with relative ease. The seat of the stool is created by pouring the resin-filler mix into a specially designed mold. The mold is rigged with three poles to act as leg supports during the drying process, allowing the legs to be inserted directly into the wet resin seat rather than through other attachments later. Through this system, an array of different leg styles and heights can be used. Similarly, there are numerous fillers that be mixed with resin. This allows plentiful opportunities for customization and variety.
Alannah Ray, 2020
Seat epoxy resin and soil
Legs oak
Dimensions 20” x 17” x 18.5”
