Summercamp Fiber Fever 24: Exploring Biomaterials
After expanding from "Textiles to Composites" in 2022 and delving into "Braided Ribbons" in 2023, the 2024 Fiber Fever Summercamp will spotlight biomaterials under the theme “Biomaterials, Beyond the Sample.”
The Growing Need for Biomaterials
In recent years, the demand for biomaterials as biodegradable alternatives to conventional plastics has surged. These materials unlock new possibilities, such as creating organic gradients and mixing base materials with varying properties. Current research is focused on enhancing the properties of base materials like chitin, cellulose, lignin, and mycelium. Simultaneously, artists, engineers, and designers are repurposing open-source 3D-printers for clay extrusion, crafting forms previously unachievable.
An Invitation to Innovate and Experiment
Starting with water-based materials and low-cost mechanical extruders, we invite participants from diverse professional backgrounds to critically assess these materials' potential. We aim to experiment with processes that transcend mere replacements of existing methods, instead reimagining design, production, and natural systems.
- What if we could create objects from locally sourced waste materials?
- What if we could combine conventional fabrics with 3D-printed organic materials?
- What if we adapted clay printing machines for water-based pastes?
- How will a design process evolve when biomaterial properties influence use and design characteristics?
- How can we create functional objects from less strong, non-water-resistant materials?
- How is the use of bio-materials influencing the existing value chains?
A Collaborative Exploration
The summercamp will bring together 15 artists, designers, and engineers to live and work collaboratively over 10 days. Participants will experiment and explore new possibilities in creating with biomaterials.
About Timelab
Timelab is a practical research organization specializing in architecture and design. Over the past 15 years, Timelab has developed a space dedicated to reshaping industrial processes, sustainable infrastructure, commoning practices, and open-source development. Timelab hosts summercamps, garagecamps, and masterclasses, bringing together diverse groups to tackle complex design challenges. Fiber Fever summercamps since 2022 are a renewed version of the summercamps since 2009 and are a collaboration with Lieven Standaert, Helena De Smet and Jesse Howard. This format is part of the recommoning practice research question.
Facilities and Logistics
The 1800 sqm space includes a makerlab, bio-composite lab, kitchen, garden, and ample open space for work, play, and rest. A diverse team of professionals will guide individual and group activities.
Dates: August 18 – 28 - We start Sunday 18th at 17:30 PM.
Daily Schedule: Gather at 9 AM, with daily collective check-ins at 12 AM, introduction in using the facilities and coaching sessions
Location: Kogelstraat 34, 9000 Ghent, accessible by public transport
We provide accommodation, food, and a common budget for materials. Participants need only to arrange their travel and commit to the entire week. Bring a mattress, sleeping bag, and any group games, if you have them.
Application
This invite is for experienced designers and engineers who want to level up their professional skills. Selection is done by the hosting group based on compatibility of skills and purpose of the camp to install a peer learning environment for designers and engineers. If you feel addressed by this description, you can reach out to our team at team@timelab.org
Closing Celebration
On August 28, from 6 PM, we will host a closing celebration and public presentation with the Timelab network of artists, designers, and professionals.
More information and progress during the summercamp will be documented on our wiki.