The ancient Japanese aesthetic of Wabi-sabi acknowledges natural imperfection: nothing lasts, nothing is finished, nothing is perfect. I am particularly attracted to the concept because it celebrates the harmony in all natural expressions in contrast to the more rigid “perfection” of the post-industrial Western world. Perhaps channelling this philosophy, Netherlands-based designer Erez Nevi Pana has created a unique material he calls Soilid. This living, doughy concoction of earth and fungi doubles in size overnight and can be cast into usable shapes, which in turn can be baked to a hard, durable consistency. Letting go of the Western aesthetic of perfection has the potential to narrow the gap we have with Mother Nature.

More from the artist here.