For my up-cycle project, I have chosen to continue explore the Unexpected Red Theory aesthetic. If you are not familiar with it, this theory revolves around the idea of using red as an intentional, striking contrast in an otherwise neutral or natural setting. By incorporating an unexpected red element, the design gains a focal point that disrupts visual monotony and captivates attention.
![](https://www.aesdes.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Dulux_Colour_Forecast_2024_Muse_palette_green-retro-dining-room-nordroom-e1708611261870-1000x667.jpg)
Project Concept
My project involves creating a laser-cut tree sculpture as a decorative piece. Inspired by the organic, intricate shapes of tree silhouettes, As seen below, I will try to imitate this design of a multi-layered wooden tree that will be laser-cut for precision and then assembled in a 3D form. The unexpected twist? Instead of leaving the wood in its natural state, I will paint the entire tree in a bold red hue, transforming it into a statement piece that embodies the Unexpected Red Theory aesthetic.
![](https://www.aesdes.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/ribbon_tree_model_rachelfalcone_sm.jpg)
Materials and Upcycling Approach
Staying true to the up-cycling project philosophy, I will construct my tree using recycled or scrap wood sheets found in laser cutters either at the ITLL or Idea Forge, that can be laser-cut. These sheets are commonly discarded in fabrication labs, and repurposing would be able to reduces waste and costs. Additionally, I will use eco-friendly, non-toxic red paint to give the tree its distinctive appearance.
![](https://www.aesdes.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/scrapwoodpile.webp)
Aesthetic Considerations
The Unexpected Red Theory thrives on contrast and intentional disruption. By painting a naturally wooden object in an unnatural yet vibrant red, the sculpture will evoke curiosity and demand attention. This design choice highlights how a single color alteration can dramatically shift perception and interpretation. The visual impact of red will emphasize the tree’s delicate laser-cut details while reinforcing the aesthetic principle of using red as a transformative design element.
![](https://www.aesdes.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Mos-Red-1000x534.jpg)
I chose the Unexpected Red Theory aesthetic because of its power to create an emotional and psychological response. Red is a color that symbolizes passion, energy, and urgency. By applying it to an organic form like a tree, it challenges the viewer’s expectations and invites deeper engagement. With these current and concerning times of policies that challenge the care for the environment, I want to make a piece that represents the urgency and concern that I feel and transform it into an piece of art that can be displayed. This tree will act as both an art piece and a conversation starter, demonstrating how a simple material can invoke feeling while transforming and redefining an object’s role in a space.
Final Presentation
The final artifact will be displayed as a standalone decoration piece, ideally set against a neutral or minimalist background to enhance its bold contrast, either on my living room or dining table. I plan to document the design and construction process through photos and videos, including a possible time-lapse of the laser-cutting and assembly process. The finished piece will be seen during the due dates of the artifact.
By merging up-cycling, laser-cut fabrication, and the Unexpected Red Theory, this project aims to demonstrate how bold aesthetic choices can transform mundane materials into striking, thought-provoking works of art.
![](https://www.aesdes.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/cefa2c1a-9963-4809-a27c-01d2a3bb1e79-1000x1000.webp)
4 Comments. Leave new
This is a super interesting theory and I had not heard of it before reading this. Red really does evoke a feeling and can impact humans in the ways you talked about. Besides this project once it’s complete, are there any other key red items that you wear or use as decoration?
Hello Elise! Definitely a new and interesting theory, I am glad I shared this. Regarding red items, I have noticed that I really like carpet or runners that have red accents as it does warm up the scenery, but besides that, I can’t think of anything else!
Huge fan of the Unexpected Red look – and now know it has a name. I drive a red car. I’m typing this comment from my bright red desk chair. Red rocks (pun intended). What software will you use to make your shapes for the laser cutter, and do you think you’ll have any issues finding scrap pieces that are the right sizes/shapes for those varying tree parts?
Hello Seth, I agree, Red definitely Rocks. For software, I intend on using SolidWorks to make my 3D renderings, and I will separate those into 2D drawings and import it to corel draw for editing and laser cutting. I think I plan on finding wood scraps first, and basing my model using those, to make the right size and shape.