⁑ Bespoke Project - Sketches, ⁑

I've decided to go with the 3D-printed clay idea. 

For Project #1: I want to focus on testing different aspects of the modular system to figure out what works best. Specifically:

• Shapes: I’ve modelled a few different shapes for the blocks, and I’ll be testing which ones stack and connect the best.
• Clay Bodies: I want to try out different types of clay (like stoneware, porcelain, and earthenware) to see which ones work well with 3D printing and hold their shape best.
• Patterns: I’ve sketched some simplified microbiology-inspired patterns that I’ll apply to the block faces. These patterns will give the blocks personality and tie them to the overall concept.

The edges of the blocks will act as connectors, allowing them to interlock and be rearranged by the user. For the designs, I’m pulling inspiration from Mexican flora, like The Mexican Poppy and Lactifluus mexicanus. It’s really important to me that my culture is reflected in the work I create.

SKETCHES:

BLOCKS:

Project #2: Refining the Final Product

Once I’ve figured out what works from the first project, I would like to bring it all together to create the actual modular lighting system. This part of the process will include:

• Lighting: I’ll figure out how the lighting will work, how to integrate LEDs and how the light interacts with the block designs to create interesting shadows and patterns.
• Slip Casting & Molds: I’ll move into making molds for the blocks, so I can create consistent pieces that are durable and easy to produce.
• Brand Identity: I also want to develop a brand identity for the lighting system. This is where I’ll bring together my interests in ceramics, 3D modelling, and graphic design. I’m imagining things like a logo, packaging, and maybe even a story about the system’s focus on culture and sustainability.

This project feels really personal because I’m combining so many of my interests: ceramics, design, and my Mexican heritage. I’ve been inspired by the microscopic beauty of Mexican flora and want to translate that into something functional and meaningful. 

Sources: 

https://mycokeys.pensoft.net/article/38359/element/7/0/Lactifluus/

https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Seeds-of-A-mexicana-and-A-ochroleuca-in-a-fluorescence-confocal-microscope-Comparative_fig1_348974426

https://www.desertmthoa.com/323/Mexican-Poppy

http://wwww.microlabgallery.com/gallery/Wash%20Palm%20Pollen%201b.aspx