Raised by a family of beekeepers, Marlene Huissoud is not fazed by insects. In fact, she was inspired of them for her series of furniture, titled 'From Insects.'
Huissoud uses materials naturally produced by bees and silkworms. This includes a biodegradable resin sourced from honeybees that use it as a hive sealant. Beekeepers remove the material in small quantities (less than 100 grams per hive per year), making it a treasured material. Another material, which Huissoud refers to as "wooden leather," is fashioned from silkworm cocoons.
She explains, "I am interested in the viability of utilizing insects and their waste streams to create future craft artifacts. Already science is exploring the potential of insects for food production and to satisfy our future dietary needs; however, I am primarily interested in using insects as co-partners in the design process."
Insect-Sourced Furniture
Marelene Huissoud's Series 'From Insects' Uses Unique Materials
Trend Themes
1. Insect-derived Materials - Exploring the use of insect-derived materials for furniture and other products.
2. Sustainable Manufacturing - Incorporating natural and biodegradable materials into furniture and other products for a more sustainable manufacturing process.
3. Insect-based Design - Collaboration with insects in the design process for future craft artifacts.
Industry Implications
1. Furniture Manufacturing - Furniture manufacturers can explore the use of insect-derived materials for a sustainable and unique product line.
2. Biodegradable Materials - Industries invested in biodegradable materials can utilize insect-derived materials for a more eco-friendly manufacturing process.
3. Insect Farming - Insect farmers can explore new markets by collaborating with designers and manufacturers for the creation of insect-based products.