Insect tower, 69x13x17cm, metal, clay and hay,, 2022
Spiral residence, 85×22,x26cm, metal, clay and hay, 2022
Insect hotel, 85x10x10cm, metal, clay and hay, 2022

The Insect Hotels are an art and design project that creates functional sculptures for insects. Made from recycled metal, clay, hay, pigments and bamboo, these structures serve as both artistic objects and habitats for insects. Installed outdoors in gardens and parks, the Insect Hotels are sculptures and habitats, inviting beings from several species to engage. There are four different insect hotels with different, all made in 2022, with a height of 69 until 85cm, currently standing in the gardens of family members.

This project explores the idea of art that can be meaningful not only to humans but also to other-than-human species. It starts from the following questions: What kind of art would insects appreciate? Does it make sense to create aesthetic objects for wild bees or ladybugs and how would they experience them? How can art help to support insect populati- ons? Since it is hard to determine whether insects will find aesthetic value in human-made objects, the Insect Hotels offer an alternative answer: they are designed to be useful to specific insect species while being environmentally and animal friendly.
The sculptures are made primarily from recycled materials. The structure is formed using recycled metal mesh, providing a sturdy framework. Clay plaster mixed with hay is applied, mimicking traditional plastering techniques while creating a natural, textured surface. Bamboo, selected for its smooth, round shape, is incorporated as it offers ideal nesting spaces for certain insects. Natural pigments, including red tones, are used in some sculptures, as specific insect species are drawn to this color. Finally, linseed oil is applied to seal and protect the sculptures from the elements, ensuring their durability outdoors.
Shifting the artistic focus to other-than-human audiences changes the perspective on the artwork. Since insects‘ perception of beauty is unknown to me, aesthetic concerns take a back seat to gestures I think could be benefitial for insects. Also, designing for another species promotes awareness of their needs.