The work was designed under the theme of celebration or festivities for Seinäjoki Taidehalli's kesäkuvataitelija position (2026). It led me to think about the action of breaking or destruction during celebrations, for example, fireworks, Greek Orthodox Botides (clay pot smashing), midsommar's seven flowers for dreams of a future love, and piñatas. Additionally, while researching to understand the origins of the piñata, I came across mentions of Chinese influences and/or parallels where a ceramic or paper ox is filled with seeds and broken during the event of Dachunniu. Inspired by this balance of joy and destruction, I produced a series of sculptures using biodegradable materials. The sculptures were inspired by seed pods and filled with seeds of native wild flowers. Then the community was be invited to break these sculptures similarly to piñatas. The function of this participatory sculptural work would be to present a balance of destruction, joy, community, and celebration. It would challenge who and what gets to participate in celebration and the making of spaces. For example, now birds and bees would also become apart of the celebration.

The use of biocomposites is to consider the environmental impact, safety when smashing (compared to clay for example), and feasibility. The seeds within the sculptures would also grow within the environment and leave a trace, marking the environment in a mutually beneficial manner for both humans and non-humans. The process would also expand beyond the event itself as they grow. In Dachunniu, the tradition is in hopes of producing a favorable climate for the upcoming growing season. Similarly, these “meadow pods” are in hopes of materializing a better climate, creating engagement in our urban spaces, and hopefully giving everyone good dreams.