Urban Plaster Bloom
Larissa Maliughjna is a contemporary sculptural artist based on the Amalfi Coast, Italy. Her practice, Urban Plaster Bloom, explores the transformation of raw construction materials into architectural wall art. By working with XPS and plaster-based mediums, she investigates the intersection of industrial architecture and organic form. Her work is a sophisticated dialogue between the rigid structures of the built environment and the fluidity of artisanal craft, creating pieces that invite viewers into a refined and minimalist world of contemporary design.
The Materiality
Expanded Polystyrene (XPS)
Expanded Polystyrene (XPS) is a lightweight, rigid foam plastic known for its exceptional thermal insulation and high strength-to-weight ratio. In the practice of Urban Plaster Bloom, XPS serves as a foundational structural element, providing a stable, sculptural base that can be intricately layered and manipulated to create complex architectural forms and topographical textures.
Plaster-based Systems
Plaster-based materials are employed for their unique ability to capture fine detail and create smooth, reflective surfaces. By combining traditional plaster with contemporary architectural techniques, the artist explores the interplay between organic flow and rigid structure, transforming raw construction materials into refined, contemporary wall works.
Artisanal Process
The process involves a meticulous research-driven approach to materiality. By examining the physical properties of XPS and plaster, the artist develops a sophisticated methodology that bridges the gap between industrial construction and contemporary art, resulting in works that are both technically precise and conceptually rich.