Rhubarb by Atelier DARN:

To address this challenge, Atelier DARN turned to Forward AM’s Ultrafuse®️ rPET, an innovative filament made from recycled PET post-industrial waste. This filament represented a sustainable alternative to traditional materials made from virgin raw materials. The development of Ultrafuse®️ rPET was driven by the need to create a filament that not only reduced environmental impact but also performed on par with conventional materials.

Ultrafuse®️ rPET stands out for several reasons:

• Recycled Content: Made from post-industrial PET waste, it reduces reliance on virgin raw materials.
• Performance: Components printed with Ultrafuse®️ rPET look and perform as well as those made from traditional PET filaments.
• Food-Safe: Based on food-safe raw materials (granulate), it is suitable for food contact applications according to the European Plastics Regulation.
• High-Speed Printability: With print speeds up to 150 mm / s, Ultrafuse®️ rPET stands out as the sustainable high-speed material for FFF printers.

By utilizing Ultrafuse®️ rPET, Atelier DARN could ensure their installation was both environmentally responsible and visually stunning.

The result of Atelier DARN’s efforts was RHUBARB, a captivating installation that won the public prize at FAV 2024. Erected in the historic courtyard of Hôtel d’Aurès in Montpellier, France, RHUBARB features 1,000 pieces of 3D-printed elements created from eco-friendly PET filaments. These elements, varying in size and color, reflect the hues of Montpellier and symbolize human diversity and inclusivity.

Inspired by the Olympics, RHUBARB celebrates the role of spectators, transforming visitors into active participants in the art. The pavilion acts as an observer, mirroring and reflecting the movements of its visitors. The name “Rhubarb” signifies the ambient background noise that completes a film scene, much like the audience’s presence completes the festival experience.

The installation also incorporates elements of sound and kinetic sculpture, transforming viewers’ movements into a symphony of audio experiences accompanied by light displays. This interactive aspect encourages participants to physically engage with the artwork, creating a dynamic and immersive experience.

At the core of RHUBARB’s success is its commitment to sustainability. In addition to Ultrafuse®️ rPET, Atelier DARN utilized handcrafted PET filament made from home waste PET bottles and a plant-based material made from biodegradable miscanthus. These materials collectively highlight the transformative potential of sustainable design practices.

RHUBARB’s use of Ultrafuse®️ rPET underscores the feasibility of creating high-quality, eco-friendly designs. The installation not only captivated audiences but also set a new standard for sustainable architecture and design, demonstrating the potential of recycled materials in creating engaging and responsible art.

RHUBARB by Atelier DARN is a testament to overcoming environmental challenges through innovative solutions. By adopting Forward AM’s Ultrafuse®️ rPET, Atelier DARN successfully created an installation that is both sustainable and captivating. The recognition of RHUBARB at FAV 2024 highlights the importance of integrating environmental consciousness into architecture and underscores the potential for 3D printing to revolutionize material use and sustainability.

As we look to the future, installations like RHUBARB pave the way for a more sustainable and interactive approach to art and architecture. They demonstrate the possibilities that arise when creativity and environmental consciousness come together, offering a vision of a more inclusive and sustainable world.