Paper short abstract:

Emerging technology brings greater opportunities for artists who are seeking new ways to communicate to larger and diverse audiences. In my work, 3D digital modeling, 3D scanning, 3D printing, augmented/virtual reality technology re-materializes in hope to make aware of the significant plants from around the world.

Paper long abstract:

Emerging technology is bringing greater opportunities for artists who are seeking new ways to communicate to larger and diverse audiences. In my work, 3D digital modeling, 3D scanning, 3D printing, and uses of augmented and virtual reality technology are used to re-materialize the actual live plants. Through documentation, archiving and making aware of the significant plants from around the world, I hope to promote the protection of the natural surroundings. As humankind draws toward technology and instant gratification, it pulls away from the natural world, draining resources in the name of “advancement” and resulting in potential devastation in the form of climate change. By creating experiences through new technology, that educates and inspires about these amazing naturally engineered life forms, it is hoped that viewers will ultimately seek to protect the environment.

Going to other portions of the world connects people to landscapes while bringing a new understanding of the planet. Many people however rarely have the opportunity to travel lessoning the chance to have a wider perspective of the natural plant life and its connection to the people that live within that landscape. An engaging and immersive experience to see the beautiful and intriguing forms and colors of flowers (especially the endangered plants) draw attention back to nature. Rematerializing and making plants agile, allow people to travel virtually rather than in person. During a critical point in time, with our planet currently existing in a fragile ecological state, these topics are valuable to the world we all depend upon.