Realism

The opposite of my upcycle project’s aesthetic, which is abstract, would be realism. Realism focuses on imitating life as closely as possible. The realism aesthetic focuses on accurately replicating real-life forms, textures, and environments. It emphasizes detail, authenticity, and naturalism, creating designs that closely resemble objects or scenes from the natural world.

A realistic approach to the spinning cat toy would prioritize accurate representation, detailed textures, and natural materials to mimic something familiar in the real world.

To adapt the design to a realistic aesthetic while maintaining the spinning and scratching functions, the materials and techniques would need to shift slightly:

Central Spinning Hub:

Instead of plain dowels, use twigs or branches that are sanded smooth but retain their natural texture.
I would have to use small artificial vines or leaves to wrap around the spinning hub for added realism.

Arms of the Spinner:

The connecting arms could be painted wooden dowels or real branches.
I then should attach faux leaves or even lightweight artificial flowers to give the impression of a real tree.

Scratching Post:

I should wrap the scratching post in a textured material that mimics tree bark.
Then, I should add a light dusting of paint to enhance the bark’s texture and create contrast, making it look more lifelike.

Base Design:

Using faux grass mats or textured paint will recreate the appearance of soil or grass.
Also creating uneven layers on the base will give it the natural irregularity of the real world.

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Cat Toys:

I would replace generic dangling toys with toys designed to look like small animals (like birds), insects, or feathers. These could be handmade from felt, fabric, or other materials already on hand.

Here is a sketch of what this may look like:

One challenge in enacting a realistic design would be getting natural-looking materials that are lightweight and cat-safe. Real branches might splinter and harm the cat, so sanded or artificial alternatives would be safer. Painting techniques, like stippling and dry brushing, would help mimic real-world textures on synthetic materials, but I would have to buy non toxic paint so it would be safe. Faux leaves, vines, and grass could be sourced cheaply and attached with glue or wire to the structure.

By blending the function of the spinning toy with a realism aesthetic, the project would still provide enrichment for the cat while serving as a visually striking and lifelike object in the space.

Sources:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mona_Lisa

https://www.theartstory.org/movement/american-realism/

https://aestheticrealism.org/about/what-is-aesthetic-realism-by-eli-siegel/