Plastic Problems

In Plastic Problems, Ruby Elizia explores sustainability through biologically inspired textures drawn from ocean life. Her research centred on ocean pollution, especially the devastating effects of plastic waste on marine ecosystems. Using recycled fishing nets, Ruby created textiles by melting them between layers of reclaimed plastic, capturing their texture in the process.

She drew particular inspiration from Ideonella sakaiensis - a microbe known for its ability to digest plastic, shaping her prints with forms, textures, and colours influenced by marine biology.

Ruby's collection aims to spotlight the urgency of the plastic pollution crisis. Her final two looks took on a symbolic “bride and groom” theme, representing humanity’s destructive marriage to plastic and the lasting environmental harm it's caused.