As humans, we do not have poisonous skin or a hard-outer shell and lack many other methods of self-preservation. Mimicking the defensive characteristics of other animals, we can draw on the design that has evolved for thousands of years. Many of these growth patterns can be defined mathematically and therefore replicated.
This series references the type of cellular arrangements that allow water to move through the tissue of a tree. The cell structures support the organism by transporting water and nutrients to ensure their safety and longevity.
Drawing on these natural forms the cells were modeled using a parametric modeling program called Grasshopper. Each cell was created using a population of data points which were then connected using the Delaunay triangulation, producing lines between points at certain angles. The laser cutter was able to take the forms out of the digital realm and precisely cut the complex shapes out of handmade paper. The papers were made using three types of plant fibers, abaca, cotton, jute, with some coffee grounds included in one of the batches.
Shield is a manifestation of boundaries we often perceive as intangible; these structures give shape to one of the many protective mechanisms evolved over time.