RACHEL FU
- Week 1 – Introduction to Sustainability
When I learned about sustainability during my first week of study, the first thought that came to my mind was plant-based printing and dyeing.
Dior 2020s uses plant heat transfer technology. Applying this technology to ready-to-wear clothing is difficult and expensive. Chic plant prints, gorgeous printing and dyeing, and elegant tulle all make the show more natural. In line with the theme of sustainable development. As a strong advocate for the environment, I was inspired to try plant-based printing and dyeing.

I tried printing and dyeing the texture of the bark to collect the texture patterns of the bark. This is very interesting.


week 2 Emerging Technologies
At the Serpentine Gallery, we visited a relatively unique exhibition of new technologies.
“The third world: The Bottom Dimension” is a fantastical and thought-provoking journey through the world created by a new generation of Brazilian artists. It is part of Gabriel Massan’s ongoing multi-dimensional project of the same name, which includes a Tezos-based web3 token, as well as a A video game that explores the intersection of the black experience and the impact of colonialism in Brazil.
This interdisciplinary exhibition is designed as a responsive ecosystem that extends the ideas behind video games, providing all visitors with an opportunity to play and enter into the concept of gaming while seated at Massan’s gaming desk , emotions and the mechanical world. The exhibition is also a space to engage with a wider range of artists and thinkers, including Castiel Vitorino Brasileiro, Novissimo Edgar, LYZZA, Jota Mombaca and VenturProfana, whose work combines installation, textiles, sound and poetry. These works expand our imagination to embrace ancestral knowledge, ecological awareness, and an openness to transmutation and reverberation.



WEEK 3 Nature




This week is about nature
Some flowers and plants were collected to be used in plant dyeing experiments.
I used alum to soak the plants, which helps to set the color.
It’s fun to let the flowers’ natural colors print on fabric or paper.
WEEK4 CULTURE SUSTAINABILITY
Plant printing, an artistic technique, harnesses the beauty of nature in the creation of art. It involves using leaves, petals, and other plant materials as stamps or templates to produce intricate patterns and textures James N. Green and Peter Stallybrass (2006). The historical context of plant printing in art dates back centuries, with examples of leaf printing found in various ancient cultures. The first record of plant printing can be found in a manual written by the ancient Greek pharmacologist Discorides (Georgia B. Barnhill 2010). This manual was very popular during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance(Georgia B. Barnhill 2010). In medieval versions, the technique was used to illustrate plants(Georgia B. Barnhill 2010). It offers a unique bridge between nature and creativity(Georgia B. Barnhill 2010). Most natural dyes come from dye plants, the best-known ones including madder, brazilwood, logwood, weld, woad and indigo (Wild Colours no date). Some natural dyes, such as cochineal, come from insects, or from mineral sources. Madder, weld and other dye plants have been used for thousands of years (Wild Colours no date).


WEEK5 EMPATHY
What is the color of empathy?
Colors play an exceptionally prominent role in our lives. They influence our thinking, inspire our decision-making, and impact our moods. From causing changes to changing reactions, colors are more powerful than we think. Depending on our interpretations, they can be used for both good and evil. Fortunately, we have the power to welcome some colors and shun others. This guide will take you on a journey through the exciting universe of color meanings.
REF: color-meanings.com

FOR EXAMPLE
Gold symbolism
Gold is the color of prestige, success, wealth, and prosperity.
Gray symbolism
Gray is the color of compromise, neutrality, control, and practicality.
Blue symbolism
Blue is the color of security, trust, loyalty, and responsibility.
Rachel have good evidence of research that links to the topic sustainability , and also variety of trying to apply on the technology and fabric. Your work has very good color and very sensitive experiment, such as the drawing on the paper to trace the tree’s texture. I like how you analyze each week’s topic. You have a unique view that brings out your personality in it. You can add more your work into each week’s blog. It will be so good if you share more on the blog. However, I like you experimental way to bring the real element from nature into your own research. I’m interested to the process as well. I really like how you really goes to nature and finds those you like. It’s so lovey.
Throughout the Sustainability course, I’ve explored the connections between sustainability, art, and nature, prompting valuable self-reflection.
In the first week, I was drawn to plant-based printing and dyeing but encountered challenges in sourcing eco-friendly materials. To improve, I plan to focus on sustainable materials and refine my techniques.
The visit to the Serpentine Gallery in Week 2 inspired me to explore emerging technologies in my art, aiming to create more innovative and sustainable works.
Week 3’s hands-on experience revealed the need for precision in plant dyeing. To enhance my skills, I’ll dedicate more time to practice and refine my techniques.
In Week 4, I considered how to add a contemporary twist to traditional plant printing. Future research and experimentation will help me bring a fresh perspective to this art form.
Week 5’s reflection on colors emphasized the emotional impact of art. Understanding color psychology will allow me to create more emotionally resonant works.
So in conclusion, this course has prompted self-discovery and a commitment to sustainability and emotional engagement in my art. I’m excited to apply these insights to my work and continue evolving as an printer.♥♥♥