2022Crafts Council Nederland
Digital Symbiosis in Ceramic Crafts
Physical and Digital Symbiosis in Ceramics is a research project focusing on ceramic surfaces by Studio Nina van Bart, exploring the integration of digital 3D technologies into traditional ceramic crafts to address tactile needs in a virtual era. Building on previous studies of Tactile Totems in Wood, it introduces a new phase of research incorporating Tactile Totems and Tiles in Ceramics. The aim is to develop a new language for surfaces and achieve a more efficient design and production process in ceramics. The project was selected through the Open Call of Crafts Council Nederland. Studio Nina van Bart collaborated with experts in 3D Procedural modeling and Ceramics development. The first creations were presented at the group exhibition New Crafts during Dutch Design Week 2022, held in the Microlab Hall, Eindhoven.
Material Library of Surfaces in Ceramics
Tactile totems conclude a research with an object composed of stackable containers. Consisting of a dome, cone, cylinder, and beam—the four archetypal shapes of architecture—the Totems introduce finishing techniques and surface treatments. Together, the four forms provide a comprehensive overview of what is generally achievable. The Totems collectively form a library of materials with new finishes and processing techniques for an existing material. Nina van Bart creates totems in diverse materials commonly used in architecture, such as concrete, wood, steel, and ceramics for this project. The tactile tiles showcase surface possibilities in a modular approach for an architectural context.Both elements, the Tactile Tiles and Totems in Ceramics, serve as representations of research for surfaces. They demonstrate what is possible and achievable in ceramics while also making these suggestions visible and tangible. It illustrates how, colours, textures, and finishes in ceramics can enhance our tactile experience and influence the identity of our objects and surroundings.
“In the design process, I believe in combining artisanal methods with modern technologies. This approach maintains the human touch, fosters artistic expression, and prevents digital rigidity.”
Visualization & Prototyping
The series of Tactile Tiles and Totems in Ceramics similarly demonstrates how current digital 3D technologies can enhance our approach to traditional ceramic craft. The objective is to achieve a more efficient design and production process in ceramics, utilizing 3D visualization, digital 3D configurators, and 3D printing.Visualization and prototyping are also crucial for developing a new language for ceramic surfaces and for defining the appropriate texture, dimensions, and material characteristics.Broadening the research with insights and knowledge from diverse fields, Nina van Bart collaborated with experts across disciplines, including 3D Procedural artist Roel Deden, Ceramic creator Marieke Heesbeen, and 3D printing company Marketiger.
“I believe that careful consideration of materials, colours, textures, and finishes improves the quality of our products and surroundings, enhancing both the sensorial and functional aspects.”
Year: 2022
Location: Eindhoven, The Netherlands
Services Studio Nina van Bart: Conceptualization, Design, Design Management, Curation, Creative direction, CMF design.
Credits:
Exhibition: New crafts
CGI’s: Roel Deden
Ceramics development: Marieke van Heesbeen
Text: Jonas Lescrauwaet
Photography: Fan Liao
This project is supported by: Crafts Council Nederland