Inspired by the Earth’s biodiversity, artist Stephanie Kilgast creates sculptures that reflect the relationship between humans and nature. In her ongoing "Discarded Objects" series, she transforms man-made objects, such as old food cans and plastic bottles, into tiny ecosystems, transforming trash into colorful living homes.
Kilgast’s work visualizes plastic pollution and its impact on marine life. Despite the negative subject matter, the artists colorful works evoke a sense of joy. It’s a reminder that nature has the ability to recover if we consume less. “Life fascinates me, textures and patterns excite me, and sculpting delights me,” Kilgast said. "Destructive human activity makes me feel hopeless, and creating art balances it all."
From tiny turtles to iridescent fungi, each individual element is painstakingly sculpted from polymer or epoxy clay. Once in place, Kilgast paints the tiny components in vibrant colors to bring the entire piece to life. "Through the bold and vibrant colors I chose, I created a beautiful apocalyptic world," Kilgast said. "While the topics I talk about are heavy, I also hope that people don't give up hope and keep fighting."
Stephanie Kilgast creates sculptures that reflect the relationship between humans and nature.
In her ongoing "Discarded Objects" series, she transforms man-made discarded objects into tiny ecosystems.
