A MECHANICAL TREE
The main concept of the proposal emerges after years of exploration in our own practice in India. We have consistently integrated natural and ecological factors as crucial components of our urban interventions. Given the spatial limitations in historical Indian cities, we have experimented with movable pots and climber plants to incorporate vegetation in spaces where planting full-sized trees is not feasible.
Over time, these pot prototypes evolved to help us re-imagine the potential interactions between nature and humans in urban settings. "The mechanical tree" is a plant that was previously designed as an artificial, human-conceived urban device, positioned midway between an artifact and a grown tree. This new creation aims to symbolize the harmony and reconciliation between humans and nature, a dialogue that amplifies the ability to enhance the environment using technology for the betterment of environmental science.
ANATOMY OF THE SCULPTURE
The prototype consists of several components and parts that can be assembled to form the new "cyborg plant." Its anatomy results from a hybridization of the conventional planter and traditional urban furniture, with the emerging perspectives of flexible devices that can interact with and respond to their surroundings. Dissecting the unit, the individual mechanical tree will have the following components, from bottom to top:
- The legs act as the tools enabling the dancer to engage with the stage. This involves a simple fabricated base with rotating caster wheels, allowing the plant to move.
- The dress represents the costume worn by a character. The heavier part of the pot contains the soil and serves as benches or seating areas for pedestrians. This interaction of the object with the ground level ensures stability and strength. Various materials, such as cast concrete planter bases, handmade terracotta pots, or fabricated metal frames with bamboo and fabric surfaces, are feasible options, subject to site implementation, manufacturing, and budget considerations.
- The expression of the arms is the top part of the tree that extends over the space, signifying the relationship of the object with the open air. This element culminates in the sculptural ensemble, acting as a landmark, providing shade, rain protection, enclosure, and intimacy. To simulate branches and foliage, the structure can be achieved through a wire mesh surface, fabricated metal geometry, or bamboo and cane weaving, securely attached to the base pot. As the plant grows, it will naturally adapt to the wire's shape, symbolizing the current relationship between humans and nature.
THIS PLANT IS COMMUNICATING!
If resources permit, we are interested in exploring the possibility of monitoring the plant and allowing it to convey data to visitors. How can this be achieved? The prototypes could incorporate sensors that provide information about humidity levels, soil moisture, fertilizer concentrations, light intensity, etc. An app or code could enable both the maintenance team and visitors to access the plant's status. Sensors on the wheels could move the plant to shade or sunlight based on its requirements. Color-coded lights at night could indicate the plant's water level and watering needs. The wheels' movement could be powered by self-generated energy stored in a battery from a small solar panel attached on top.
In essence, we envision a scenario where, using sophisticated tools, we enable the plant to communicate with us—establishing a connection between its intelligence and ours through the device's system.
MANUFACTURING
Our dedicated in-house team in Ahmedabad, India is fully equipped to bring this vision to life. The manufacturing, crafting, and installation of the new planters can be seamlessly executed on Exhibition Road for the festival. Leveraging the expertise of experienced carpenters, fabricators, bamboo weaving artisans, fabric and textiles manufacturers, clay and concrete pot providers, and more, ensures a robust and high-quality production process. Additionally, we aim to foster sustainability by initiating a campaign that repurposes and recycles materials considered waste or unused in the region. The allocated budget could play a significant role in aiding underprivileged families who have been disproportionately affected by the pandemic. This endeavor presents numerous benefits, including the cross-cultural exchange and the spotlight on Indian craftsmanship at the prestigious London Festival of Architecture. By manufacturing the physical components (HARDWARE) in India, production costs can be optimized, allowing for greater allocation towards plants, maintenance, and the SOFTWARE aspect (sensors and plant monitoring, collaboratively developed with a team of specialists).
INSTALLATION ON SITE
The installation process will be meticulously orchestrated, ensuring the safety and durability of the assembled pieces. Every detail of joinery and construction will be designed with easy assembly and dismantling in mind. To engage visitors further, we propose offering a short botany workshop, allowing them to learn and actively participate in the planting of different species on-site.
MAINTENANCE
With a view to involving visitors and promoting the festival's theme of 'CARE,' maintenance efforts can be shared with the audience. This collaborative approach encourages a sense of ownership and responsibility among attendees. Watering and gardening can be embraced as communal duties, shared by everyone present at the site and the festival. During key festival dates, a team of skilled botanists and gardeners can oversee the primary maintenance tasks, while visitors have the opportunity to contribute and learn from these experts.
DURABILITY AND LIFE BEYOND
Our alignment with the long-term vision of the project, as outlined in the competition guidelines, is unwavering. Following the festival, the assortment of planters (approximately 20-25 units) can be relocated to various locations, extending their purpose beyond the event. These mobile installations will continue to flourish as the plants grow and expand within their frames, perpetuating the same ethos they were originally designed to embody.
