Humans vary in appearance just like farm produce and it is a mistake to expect all produce to look the same. Transcent challenges you to see beyond the ‘ugly’ exterior and appreciate ugly food despite their appearances. Transcent strives to give ugly produce a new life, allowing consumers to gain an appreciation, and the potential of what is otherwise deemed as 'ugly'.

Illustrations

Ugly Perfume

Inspired by the quirky, irregular forms of "ugly" produce, the bottles and containers feature textures and shapes that mimic the organic imperfections. Just as the produce is reimagined into something luxurious, the packaging communicates both the raw beauty and refinement of nature. The blemishes and asymmetries that are often seen as flaws are embraced as unique characteristics, turning what was once considered waste into a symbol of sustainability and luxury.

Scent-Making Workshop

In this hands-on workshop, participants learn how to distill beautiful, natural scents from imperfect or "ugly" produce, giving new life to fruits and vegetables that might otherwise go to waste. By using everything from crooked carrots to bruised lemons, the workshop highlights how we can turn imperfections into something extraordinary.

Participants will also work with produce scraps, such as lemon zest and orange peels, to add extra layers of texture and depth to their scents. The focus is on making the most of every part of the fruit or vegetable, showcasing its full potential.

This workshop is all about celebrating sustainability, creativity, and the beauty in what’s often overlooked, while teaching practical skills that combine fragrance creation with eco-conscious practices.

* This is a fictional project created in Temasek Polytechnic, School of Design