ART & DESIGN by. meltem eti proto
This is a story about the leaves and barks...
"Wouldn't it be possible for leaves and bark—those often overlooked remnants of nature—to live another life before returning to the earth?"
Guided by this question, I began working with various types of bio-waste materials such as magnolia leaves, eucalyptus bark, pine needles, and more. My goal was to explore their potential as raw materials for experimental design.
I collected these biomaterials across different environments in Rome, Bodrum, and Istanbul. Through hands-on experimentation, I observed how each material responded to manipulation and transformation. The unique textures, shapes, and structures that emerged reflected the diversity of their origins, and each form told a quiet story of place and possibility.
material design
Today, we see an increasing number of researchers and designers exploring biomaterials and sustainable processes. One of the most prominent figures in this field is Neri Oxman, whose pioneering work at the intersection of design, biology, and technology has become a key reference for many. Her research emphasizes the integration of natural processes into the design methodology, offering a new framework for sustainable innovation.
Another inspiring example is Mexican designer Fernando Laposse, known for his work with totomoxtle—a veneer made from colorful corn husks. These husks are flattened and glued by hand onto fiberboard and card, creating a durable material used in interiors and furniture, while also celebrating indigenous agricultural heritage.
In Italy, Krill Design has developed a material derived from orange peels, which they use in 3D printing. Their product Ohmie, the first lamp made from orange waste, addresses the issue of food waste by transforming it into a functional, aesthetically compelling object.
Similarly, Orange Fiber, another Italian company, patented a process in 2014 to create sustainable fabrics from citrus by-products. They convert citrus waste into cellulose fibers, which are then used in the textile industry—demonstrating how food waste can be redirected into industrial-scale material production.
hand made bowl with bio materials
I am an educator and designer who works with a variety of materials to bring ideas to life. Through my recent exploration of bio-waste, I have focused on transforming and reusing collected organic materials to create new design possibilities. The process revealed that each material possesses distinct properties, influenced by its structure, the degree of grinding, and the characteristics of the adhesive used.
These bio-waste materials can be adapted in an artisanal way to produce a wide range of forms. From small-scale objects such as tiles and wearable pieces to medium-sized items like containers, vases, and lamps, my work demonstrates the versatility of these materials. In my experiments, I explored not only the natural coloration and texture of leaves and bark, but also the potential for introducing dyes and pigmentation, adding another layer of aesthetic variation.
This creative process embraces handcrafted methods and aligns with principles of the circular economy. All materials used are biodegradable or recyclable, ensuring that the outcomes of these experiments remain sustainable. Ultimately, this study serves as a prelude to a broader investigation into the role of biomaterials in contemporary design, pointing toward a more ecological and thoughtful approach to material innovation.
As a designer and educator, my practice is deeply rooted in material exploration and the rhythms of nature. I work with what surrounds me—what is often discarded or overlooked—transforming organic remnants into objects that speak of cycles, impermanence, and renewal.
One of my most enduring inspirations is the magnolia tree. In my neighborhood, the streets become littered with magnolia leaves at the start of summer. Left untouched on the asphalt, they quietly undergo a beautiful transformation—shifting from vibrant green to yellow, to deep, earthy browns. No longer part of the tree, they seem to continue living in another way, and their presence evokes a quiet poetry. I am especially drawn to the magnolia’s pinecone form—its geometry and complexity—and while I am not a botanist, I have a deep respect for the structure and life processes of trees. They teach me patience, transition, and form.
endless design collection
