When it comes to blending innovation, sustainability, and jaw-dropping design, few projects hit the mark quite like the collaboration between Xanita and Hayden Shapes at Semi-Permanent 2015. Held at Carriageworks in Sydney’s Bay 19, this three-day installation—presented by Audi Australia—was a masterclass in how eco-friendly materials can steal the show while amplifying a brand’s vision.
Setting the Scene
Curated by Hayden Cox, the visionary behind Hayden Shapes, this exclusive space was launched with a bang. Surf industry insiders, fashion influencers, and lifestyle media gathered for an event hosted by Cox alongside pro surfer Craig Anderson and New York artist Jason Woodside. The occasion? The unveiling of a new artist collaboration between Hayden Shapes and Woodside, spotlighting the vibrant “Love Buzz” surfboard model adorned with Woodside’s bold, colorful signature print.
But the real star of the show wasn’t just the surfboard—it was the massive wave installation that dominated the room. Standing 9 feet high and stretching 30 feet wide, this sculptural centerpiece was more than a backdrop; it was a statement.
Xanita Board Takes Center Stage
Crafted entirely from Xanita Board, this wave wasn’t just a visual marvel—it was a triumph of sustainable engineering. Known for its lightweight, eco-friendly properties, Xanita Board is made from recycled fibers, offering a greener alternative to traditional materials without skimping on strength or versatility. For this project, the board was finished with Woodside’s hand-painted print on the front, bursting with bright, pop-art contrasts, while the back featured a sleek matte black finish. The result? A dynamic, dual-perspective experience that shifted depending on where you stood in the room.
The choice of Xanita wasn’t just about aesthetics—it was practical genius. Its lightweight nature made it ideal for a large-scale installation that needed to be assembled quickly and efficiently by a small team. Plus, its flat-pack capabilities meant it could be transported and set up with minimal fuss, keeping the focus on the creativity rather than the logistics.
A Celebration of Collaboration
The wave installation served as more than just eye candy. After the launch, Cox, Woodside, and Anderson took to the main auditorium stage, speaking to a crowd of 1,500 about creativity, building global brands, and the influences that drive their work. The installation framed their discussion perfectly, embodying the fusion of art, design, and performance that Hayden Shapes champions.
Adding to the gallery vibe, the space featured three marble-print surfboards from Hayden Shapes’ previous Summer Cage project, alongside the “Love Buzz” debut. Together, they created a cohesive narrative of innovation and artistic flair, all underpinned by Xanita’s sustainable foundation.
Why It Worked
This project wasn’t just a win for Hayden Shapes—it showcased Xanita Board’s potential to transform temporary spaces into unforgettable experiences. The wave’s scale and finish proved that eco-friendly materials can hold their own in high-profile settings, while its lightweight construction kept costs and complexity down. For a three-day event, that’s a game-changer.
It also highlighted the power of collaboration. By pairing Hayden Shapes’ cutting-edge surf culture with Woodside’s bold artistry and Xanita’s sustainable tech, the installation became a multi-layered story—one that resonated with attendees and left a lasting impression.
Looking Ahead
The Semi-Permanent 2015 installation is a blueprint for what’s possible when creativity meets conscious design. For brands like Hayden Shapes, it’s a reminder that pushing boundaries doesn’t have to come at the planet’s expense. And for Xanita, it’s proof that their board isn’t just a material—it’s a canvas for imagination.
Next time you’re dreaming up a big idea, consider this: a wave made of recycled fibers stole the spotlight at one of Sydney’s coolest events. What could you create with a little ingenuity and the right tools?
Share:
A Sustainable Success Story: Xanita Board Transforms Woolworths Café at Northridge Mall