1. Context Information:

The inspiration behind my project arose from my fascination with the meticulous artistry of Japanese Bonsai cultivation, where every tree embodies a harmonious ecosystem within itself. I was intrigued by the idea of replicating this intricate beauty using discarded materials, thus infusing new life into otherwise neglected resources. By delving into the world of upcycling, I aimed to not only pay homage to the traditional art form but also contribute to sustainable practices by repurposing electronic waste wires and stones into something visually compelling and environmentally conscious.

2. Vision:

Initially, my vision was ambitious, envisioning an artificial bonsai adorned with retro-reflective elements, reminiscent of the luminous charm of traditional bonsai trees. However, as I delved deeper into the fabrication process, practical constraints prompted me to pivot towards a more feasible approach. Thus, I adapted my vision to incorporate pipe cleaners for the leaves, retaining the essence of the bonsai aesthetic while streamlining the construction process. My goal was to strike a balance between artistic vision and practicality, ensuring that the final artifact not only captured the essence of Japanese Bonsai but also reflected my commitment to innovation and sustainability in design.

3. Fabrication Process:

Step 1: Gathering raw materials including brass wire, pipe cleaners, colored papers, paint, glue, and a base stone.

Step 2: Cutting the wire into 60 pieces of 30 cm and following a tutorial for building the trunk structure (Reference 1).

Step 3: Experimenting with various leaf designs using pipe cleaners.

Step 4: Employing a method of rolling pipe cleaners on a wooden rod to create rounded leaves.

Step 5: Attaching the leaves to the branches in clusters of varied colors to mimic blossoms.

Step 6: Securing the roots of the tree to a flat stone to enhance its aesthetic appeal.

Step 7: Final adjustments to ensure authenticity and coherence with the bonsai aesthetic.

4. Final Product:

The culmination of my efforts is an intricately crafted bronze-wired bonsai, delicately perched atop a Rocky Mountain stone, adorned with vibrant clusters of pipe cleaner leaves, resembling blossoms in bloom.

5. Achieved Goals:

I successfully transformed discarded wires and stones into a visually captivating bonsai tree, meeting both functional and artistic objectives. The artifact embodies the essence of Japanese Bonsai, fulfilling its aesthetic requirements.

6. What’s Next?

I intend to retain this artifact, as it holds personal significance and serves as a testament to my creativity. Additionally, I plan to further experiment with leaf materials and designs to refine and enhance the overall structure.

7. References:

A. https://youtu.be/c4jWEtoh5CE?si=MLARfDuYzfYhQr7C

B. https://wall.alphacoders.com/big.php?i=1338706