TECHNO OAK

The Innovation Hub is a digital fabrication space located on the campus of CSU SanMarcos. Students are invited to use 3D printers, laser engravers and CNC machines toexplore, create and innovate.

The space had a rather gray, industrial feel that felt cold and oppressive. Our design team was tasked to brighten up the space with organic motifs that show the connection between nature and technology.

We decided to depict a native Californian Live Oak tree going through the seasons, with circuit boards coming out of its branches. We produced wooden panels that take up the space between the branches, backlighting them to create a high-end feel. Bringing in 3D elements into the mural reconnects the viewer with the essence of the space - i.e. 3D fabrication - while the stylized circuit boards imply the connection between nature and technology. This project was completed in collaboration with Prof. Lucy Solomon and Kodie Gerritsed.