Bookmaking with Bioplastics: Collage, Fuse, Weave

Imagine an edible book that melts instantly with hot water or biodegrades within a few months. How would you “consume” such a book? What sculptural form would this book take? What are the ingredients, textures, and flavors of this book?

In the world of artist’s books and zines, bioplastics present a unique opportunity at the intersection of art, science, and design. Incorporating methods and techniques from paper engineering and the book arts, participants will experiment with combining or fusing different bioplastic samples together using just water. You will learn how to manipulate the base recipe for bioplastics according to design or project needs and within the material’s possibilities.

Specifically, the instructor will introduce two recipes: bio-laminate (material for layering or covering) and bio-resin (or bio-glass for hardcovers or sculptural forms), exploring ways to tinker with these recipes according to design wishes and within the materials’ possibilities.

By the end of the workshop, you will be able to cook your own book-inspired bioplastic creations in your kitchen and beyond!

Please note that it takes one week for the samples to dry – they can be picked up at Genspace after the workshop. Pick up date and times will be provided the day of the class.

P hoto Credit: Fan created a 2” x 1” edible zine, with a collaged cover of bioplastic pieces (red food coloring, cochineal, pine needles).

COVID-19 Safety Notice:

If you are feeling unwell, suspect that you have been exposed to COVID-19 or test positive, please do not attend and let us know ASAP ([email protected]). If you cancel after our 7-day policy, we cannot refund your ticket, but we can exchange and offer credits toward future classes. If you have signed up for Biohacker Boot Camp, we will automatically transfer your registration to the next month’s dates unless you tell us otherwise.

Fan Kong (she/her) is a learning scientist and teaching artist rooted in Elmhurst, Queens. Born in China and raised in Hong Kong and on Long Island, she works to build safe and inclusive spaces where youth and families can practice social change-making through the arts and sciences, especially across languages and generations. She has collaborated with artists, scientists, and educators on youth programs focused on chemical oceanography, protein-folding, and making/tinkering. Recently, Fan was inspired by Genspace’s Intro to Bioplastics class, which sparked her inquiry into the world of bio-based materials.

Follow her on Instagram @fakefankong

Host or Publisher Genspace NYC