MLEM

2025

Sculptural paper box with hand embroidered paper, kumihimo. 8x4x8 inches.

MLEM was commissioned as a mascot for a podcast created by a local software company. The podcast focuses on education and exploration around AI and technology, and instead of using AI-generated imagery scraped from artists without permission, the company chose to collaborate directly with an artist to create artwork for the project.

In some ways, MLEM is an illusion: a high-tech robot constructed from very low-tech materials. The piece is made entirely from paper, thread, buttons, sequins, felt, and magnets, but designed to resemble metal and machinery. MLEM is built in the style of a jointed stuffed animal, with posable arms and a movable head. The front door closes with magnets and contains a hidden compartment inside the chest. The cords are made from kumihimo braids, while the rollers inside the treads are constructed from rolled felt.

You can read more about how it was made in this blog post.