BIOMIMICRY or BIOMIMETICS is the imitation of the models, systems, and elements of nature for the purpose of solving complex human problems.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biomimicry

Velcro was inspired by the tiny hooks found on the surface of burs.

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http://www.amazon.com/Biomimicry-Innovation-Inspired-Janine-Benyus/dp/0060533226

TED videos by Janine Benyus

http://www.ted.com/talks/lang/eng/janine_benyus_biomimicry_in_action.html

http://www.ted.com/themes/inspired_by_nature.htmlhttp://www.asknature.org/

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Architecture follows nature PDF file

Joseph Paxton – Sydenham Crystal Palace – UK – First Expo 1850

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BIOMORPHISM is an art movement that began in the 20th century. It models artistic design elements on naturally occurring patterns or shapes reminiscent of nature and living organisms. Taken to its extreme it attempts to force naturally occurring shapes onto functional devices.

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ART FORMS IN NATURE – Ernst Haeckel – 1899 – NTU Library QH46H133

http://www.kuriositas.com/2012/01/art-forms-of-nature-ernst-haeckel.html

https://www.google.com.sg/search?q=ART+FORMS+IN+NATURE+-+Ernst+Haeckel&espv=210&es_sm=93&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X&ei=vELTUvTuBsiekwXCiYHIAw&ved=0CDUQsAQ&biw=1920&bih=1074

 

Biomorphism is also seen in modern industrial design, such as the work of Alvar Aalto, Isamu Noguchi, Marc Newson, Ross Lovegrove …(and many others…)

Instead of designed objects looking exactly like the natural form, they use only slight characteristics to remind us of nature.

TED Talks: Ross Lovegrove shares organic designs