Artificial Bonsai Tree by Jennifer Chan

Jennifer Chan
Artificial Bonsai Tree, 2007

Artificial Bonsai Tree is a contemporary twist to the traditional art of bonsai. Instead of patiently shaping a tree over many years, this design invites the user to become part of the process immediately.

The project explores how new technologies can create freedom rather than control. The process of Rapid Manufacturing provides designers with a lot of freedom in creating shapes, and Jennifer Chan uses this technique to generate freedom for the user as well. The three-dimensional lace structure of the trunk can easily be trimmed into any desired shape, allowing each bonsai to be customised and continuously transformed over time.

Blending technology with craftsmanship and interaction, the tree turns a symbol of precision and patience into something playful, personal, and open-ended. The result is both decorative and experimental — a bonsai that evolves through the hands of its owner.

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The Artificial Bonsai Tree is part of the Smart Deco II project and exhibition presented during Milan Design Week in 2007 by Droog Design.