Dae Uk Kim’s modified daisy originates from his research into mutated nature, starting from the belief that we are all mutant. Kim draws inspiration from the many naturally occurring mutations in plant species, such as the four-leaf clover. The clover typically only has three leaves, but when one becomes damaged, its will to live pushes it to create a fourth leaf. The fourth leaf has consequently become a symbol of good luck, happiness and prosperity in many cultures.

‘Don’t get too frustrated if you look a little different from others, you too will be able to open your own fourth leaf.’

David represents the natural phenomenon of fasciation, also known as cresting, a relatively rare condition of abnormal growth in vascular plants. This variation pushes the apical meristem (growing tip) to grow perpendicularly to the original direction of growth, thus producing an elongated, ribbon-like form.

This phenomenon occurs for many reasons, including hormonal, genetic, bacterial, fungal, viral and environmental disturbances. The results are often beautifully elaborate contorted tissue, and the species which can develop fasciation are specifically grown and prized for their aesthetic value.

Kim’s work celebrates the beautiful mutations that take place in nature, pushing us to embrace and appreciate our diversities. What can we learn from the way we look at mutated nature?

David is part of 'Expedition Aequalis', an ongoing, interdisciplinary design-research project by Dutch Invertuals in collaboration with The Future Laboratory, Edhv and Reon Brand.