The typical practice when molding ceramics is to use hard molds that will aid in the precise and efficient production of identical pieces; however, uniqueness is one of the winning features of these Kawa Porcelain Vases, so a more flexible form was used to make them.
Each stem holder was slip-cast separately in tall pouches that were made of strips of leather stitched together. This created rather soft structures that slump and crease slightly, influencing the shapes that the porcelain would take.
Souda of Brooklyn sewed several different hide containers, but even if the same mold was used repeatedly, the resultant Kawa Porcelain Vases would emerge as singular items with their own beautiful textures and flaws.
Leather-Molded Vessels
Kawa Porcelain Vases Have Been Cast in Pliable Cow-Skin Sacks
Trend Themes
1. Unique Ceramics - Exploring the use of flexible molds in ceramics production to create one-of-a-kind pieces with unique textures and flaws.
2. Alternative Materials - Experimenting with unconventional materials like leather to create innovative and pliable structures in ceramics manufacturing.
3. Handcrafted Aesthetics - Embracing imperfections and handmade qualities in ceramic design to create visually captivating and distinct vases.
Industry Implications
1. Ceramics and Pottery - Opportunity for ceramic artists and manufacturers to incorporate flexible molds and alternative materials in their production processes, offering a range of unique and visually interesting products.
2. Home Decor and Interior Design - Designers can capitalize on the trend of handcrafted aesthetics and unique ceramics to create eye-catching vases that add character and texture to interior spaces.
3. Fashion and Accessories - Collaboration potential between leather craftsmen and ceramic artists, combining their expertise to produce innovative and customizable leather-molded vessels for fashion-forward consumers.