Couture cocoons: Insects build chic fabric homes

The caterpillar-like bagworm moth normally uses twigs and leaves to build its shelter, which hangs from a tree branch like an ornament. But instead of natural material, Inomata gave some of these creatures pieces of fabric, from which they spun delicate couture creations. The male bagworm moth eventually turns into a winged creature and leaves its home, while the female remains there, munching on her host plant until she dies.

For more on how designers have collaborated with nature’s builders to create art, see our Silk Pavilion Innovate.