PojAlgae is a series of bioplastic tapestries inspired by pojagi, traditional Korean curtains made from scrap fabric. Each panel incorporates found and salvaged materials by embedding them directly into the bioplastic film during casting, which brings both a symbolic aspect of place-based preservation, as well as an aesthetic quality reminiscent of stained glass and silk.

The process first starts by extracting polymers from seaweed, which is then mixed with dyes and plasticisers before being heated and cast into a mould. The resulting material serves as a textile sheet for sewing into a tapestry.

The goal of this work is to explore the themes of waste, preservation, and the circular economy by demonstrating how abundantly-grown algae can serve as a versatile, practical, and beautiful alternative to synthetic textiles. 

Currently collaborating with BioLab Lisbon, this project is a continuation of the material research carried out at the ELISAVA School of Design and Engineering in Barcelona, as well as during a GlogauAiR artist residency in Berlin.

Cynthia Chou, born in Taipei and based in Lisbon, is an interdisciplinary artist and material designer working with bioplastics, textiles, and pigments. Residency: GlogauAIR Berlin, 2024. Exhibited at Venice Biennale 2024, Milan Design Week 2024, ELISAVA Barcelona 2023.