Mexican designer Norberto Miranda has created an inflatable building shaped like a “giant bean” to host an exhibition celebrating the fusion of Mexican cuisine, music, and cultural traditions.
Together with the architecture firm Estudio3.14 Studio, Norberto Miranda designed these inflatable structures for a traveling exhibition called Fertile Land. The inflatable nature of the buildings allows them to be easily transported from one location to another.
The bean shape was specifically chosen due to its cultural significance in Mexico and its importance in Central American agriculture. Each inflatable structure covers 550 square feet (51 square meters) and is inspired by three different bean varieties, each featuring distinctive patterns and colors.
The “little cow beans” are covered with large black and white spots, the “June flower” beans have yellow-brown skin, and the “May flower” beans display a purple-brown tone dotted with numerous yellow-brown spots.
Miranda explained, “The entire experience is designed as a blend of public relations work intertwined with Mexico’s informal commerce, markets, and culture. It combines traditional craftsmanship with creative innovation, resulting in a project driven by popular culture.”
The project was commissioned by the Mexican organization Aprendiendo con Cultura, which supports social and cultural initiatives, in collaboration with Estudio3.14 Studio.
The first Fertile Land exhibition took place in 2018 during a 10-day celebration of the Day of the Dead in the village of Papalotra, Mexico. The exhibition is now scheduled to tour various locations across the country.
Inside each inflatable structure, the space is intentionally left empty to accommodate various installations and exhibits.
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