The Green M-velope

The M-velope is a small functional art structure designed to be a special place in which to escape from the normal reality of a predictable conventional space. It was created by the artist Michael Jantzen, who hopes that those who encounter the M-velope will be inspired to think more creatively about their own passions in life. The entire structure is made of sustainably grown western red cedar wood, which has been stained a sage green color. The M-velope can be shipped to nearly any site as an eight foot cube, or in multiple pre-fabricated pieces. It is then leveled, secured to the ground, and folded open into different potential configurations. All of the slotted panels are hinged to the main frame and can be moved into many different positions, which in turn changes the shape of the M-velope. Some of these panels support benches that can accommodate at least 14 people. A small solar panel can be added to the structure in order to power lights, and small appliances if it is located in a remote area. When not in use, the structure can again be folded back into a fixed cube configuration in order to keep anyone from entering. Because of the small size of the M-velope, usually a building permit is not required. The M-velope should be thought of as a site specific art installation that can also be used as a personal retreat. Its aesthetics are based on the world famous M-house, which was exhibited in the Museum of Modern Art in New York, and was sold to an art collector for use on his estate.