"The Gardens of Eden », Cultivating Consciousness Through Art and Permaculture. 

Project summary 

Through its graphic novel, digital drawings, public installations, workshops, and citizen participation, this project aims to raise awareness about the importance of sustainable living and the potential dangers of unchecked technological advancement. 

Concept: 

At the heart of "The Gardens of Eden" lies Crapanzano's graphic novel, a captivating narrative that follows a group of characters navigating a world on the brink of ecological collapse. Through their journey, readers are confronted with the consequences of environmental degradation and the pervasive influence of technology on society. 
The story is about a future world where three types of human spaecies try to live together and achieve a harmonious utopian world that respects natural ecosystems.  Obviously, this research will be hampered by many problems.

Crapanzano's digital drawings serve as visual anchors, bringing the story to life with vivid imagery and thought-provoking symbolism. 

Method of creation

The creative process begins with observation of the environment, which is the greatest source of inspiration. Jean-Michel Crapanzano draws sketches of trees, flowers and plants in situ to build up a repertoire of shapes and compositions. These sketches or certain shapes are then modelled using Cinema 4D and Blender, a modelling programme.

These models are then combined with photos taken by the artist or copyright-free photos in Photoshop, in the form of hundreds of layers that are worked on in relation to each other until the desired composition and colourimetry are achieved. Each layer is then linked together using different filters and digital manipulations.

The whole composition is then reworked by hand on a graphics tablet using a pen, working along cross-hatched lines that give a very graphic look. The colourimetry and contrasts are reworked until the right mood and message are conveyed.

Public Installations: 

Beyond the pages of the graphic novel, "The Gardens of Eden" extends into the public space through immersive installations. These installations, strategically placed in urban centers and public parks, invite viewers to step into the world of the story and engage with its themes firsthand. From interactive sculptures to augmented reality experiences, each installation serves as a catalyst for dialogue and reflection on topics ranging from sustainable agriculture to the ethics of artificial intelligence.

Workshops and Art Education:

In addition to static installations, "The Gardens of Eden" offers a dynamic program of workshops and educational initiatives. Through hands-on activities and collaborative projects, participants learn about permaculture principles, digital art techniques, and the intersection of art and activism. These workshops provide practical skills while fostering a sense of community and empowerment among participants, inspiring them to take action in their own lives and communities.

Citizen Participation:

Central to the ethos of "The Gardens of Eden" is the belief in the power of collective action. Citizens are invited to become active participants in the project, contributing their ideas, skills, and resources to its ongoing evolution. Whether through community gardening initiatives, mural painting workshops, or digital storytelling competitions, "The Gardens of Eden" empowers individuals to become agents of change in creating a more sustainable and equitable world.

Impact:

"The Gardens of Eden" aims to ignite a cultural shift towards greater ecological consciousness and social responsibility. By combining art, permaculture, and technology, this project challenges conventional narratives and inspires audiences to reimagine their relationship with the natural world. Through its multifaceted approach, "The Gardens of Eden" transcends traditional boundaries of art, inviting people of all ages and backgrounds to join in the journey towards a more harmonious and sustainable future.