Mauricio Affonso

Mauricio Affonso’s work celebrates the amalgamation between craft and tradition with design and technology. He is interested in designing with a deep understanding of the situations in which objects find themselves in the world, investigating the reciprocity between object and context. Working in the context of contemporary design culture he explores different materials and manufacturing processes to generate new means of expression and appease his quest for pushing the boundaries of experimentation and learning. He believes design impacts, changes and guides every part of human life. It has the power to bring communities together, integrating technology while satisfying the needs of individuals. Using art and design as a vehicle he hopes to inspire, educate and provide positive experiences to those who come in contact with his work.

Luffa Lab

Although usually associated with scrubbing your back during a shower, Luffa is far more than that - Luffa is natural smart material.

Luffa fibres form a complex network of cellulose that act like an open cell foam material that is both extremely strong and light-weight.

'Luffa Lab' explores the inherent qualities of Luffa fibres for the potential to be used as an alternative to synthetic materials suitable for a wide range of applications and durable consumer products.