“If you live in a tree-house, what you want from the world becomes what a tree wants from the world..." ― Mehmet Murat ildan
"Biomimicry is the conscious emulation of life's genius" Janine Benyus
Port Jackson Nests, 2009 by Porky Hefer
Port Jackson Nests 2009 2m x 1.4m. Port Jackson, dak riet, fynbos, steel.
”Nests are copying the genius of the Weaver Birds. The result is a human nest to be used outside hung in a tree or inside. It is an attempt at biomimicry but my skills are no match for the delicate touch of a master. I have explored different materials from Port Jackson alien vegetation to Kubu cane to waste materials, looking for the most sustainable and effective solution. I collaborate with experts in the various weaving techniques to achieve what I dream.” -Porky Hefer
See
Check out the giant human-sized nests created by Hefer and the tiny, perfect nests created by weaver birds.
TULBAGH
Look at the inspiration Hefer has to work with!!
Weaver Bird nest hanging from a bamboo tree
There are nearly 100 species of weaver birds renowned for their carefully woven hanging bird nests. These nests tend to be either hung from the tip of a branch or leaf or suspended between two twigs. They are globular in shape with a single entrance hole. Apart from globular nests, weaver Birds also construct kidney-shaped nests and retort-shaped nests which are basically globular nests with an entrance tunnel. (earthlife)
Say
Porky Hefer says “I think it’s important to show what beauty humans are capable o
f with their hands rather than the destructive mass production that technology is driving the modern consumerist society towards.” (oneallevery)
What do you think of this perspective?
Do you think humans are losing their ability to make beautiful things? Why/Why not?
How do you think it would feel to spend some time in one of Hefer’s nests?
Do
Practice getting good at creating beauty with your hands.
Calligraphy
Drawing
Cooking/baking beautiful and delicious foods
Weaving
Embroidery/Cross stitch
Whittling…
Read about the weaver birds’ labor of love! 💓
About Porky Hefer
Hefer reclines in one of his wall-mounted, human-size “nests” woven from kubu cane. (azure magazine)
It’s the future of the next generation that I am concerned about and the state of the world they inherit. Looking after our animals and Earth is one thing but also the preservation of human skills, crafts and traditions,” says Hefer. “I think it’s important to show what beauty humans are capable of with their hands rather than the destructive mass production that technology is driving the modern consumerist society towards.
How do you define creative success? A little, short, warm feeling in my tummy. (20Q Interview Designindaba)
South African artist Porky Hefer was born in 1968. An exploration into perception and natural instinct, Porky Hefer’s work invokes a new discourse around the sensibilities of handmade design, the joy of child-like reception, and the transformative effects of meditation. With drama and intrigue, Hefer’s pieces challenge us to shed what is learned for what is inherently and unconsciously known – to examine our responses, preconceptions and limitations. Here lies an opportunity to reconnect the senses, embrace visceral reactions and to welcome an innocent, open-hearted awe. Hefer is South Africa’s 2013 Design Foundation Icon Award Winner. His first solo show, Monstera Deliciosa, Volume I, was presented at Southern Guild’s Cape Town gallery at the end of 2015, garnering rave local and international reviews, which led to a solo exhibition at R & Company in New York in 2017. Hefer also represented South Africa with Southern Guild at the inaugural London Design Biennale 2016. (oneallevery.com)
Hefer does so much more personal pod sculpture/furniture!
His oversized shell lounger features a leather interior and cowhide exterior. (Azuremagazine)
Check out more of his art at Animal Farm and inhabit.
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