Tabletop-Fall 2008

This fall I took a tabletop class where we were asked to research a country and design five tabletop items that related to the customs in that country.  I chose Morocco because of the interesting way in which they eat and present food.  

Moroccans typically eat with their hands, their right hand to be specific (the left hand is the dirty hand).  They also typically eat from a communal dish placed in the center of the table.  I wanted to find a way to incorporate these customs into my designs in a way that the common New Yorker would be engaged but also comfortable.   

The first piece I designed was a type of silverware.  It was designed to be used only with the right hand and in using it one would imitate the scooping motion Moroccans use, while having a barrier between the food and the hand.  The second piece I designed was a bowl that allowed the user to take food from the communal dish and put it in their own dish.  Lastly, I designed a tea service set.  Mint tea is very popular in Morocco.  It is served hot and very strong and is often sweetened.  The saucer was made with enough room for a sugar spoon and has a slight lip allowing the user to hold it comfortably.  

The designs were very well received.  I was asked to submit photos of my work for consideration for a website that showcases student work.  All in all it was a rich, fulfilling and rewarding semester.  

Latest "thread"

Wear or Carry color assignment. This is a coat inspired by a slipper orchid. The color palette is taken from the form. Several color studies were conducted along with mood boards, material samples and mock ups. This was my first real attempt at sewing and I owe everything I now know to my great friend Scully. Where would we be without our studio mates??!!!

Scene II Act I

Spring break is finally here and I am afforded the opportunity to sit down and document the work I've done over the first part of the second semester. Things have been much more focused and deliberate this semester. We have been given longer lead times on our assignments in exchange for a higher quality of work. The first assignment turned out to be a lighting competition for Kovacs. It was exciting to think we had 6 weeks to complete this project and the opportunity to have it produced. I was chosen as one of 27 finalists in the competition and took second place in the student choice awards. (Pictures from top to bottom: Sketch models, first working sketch model, final model for first judging, "Current" light at the New York Design Center during set up for final judging, final prototype, video of final prototype.)

Grad School Take One!

Well the first semester is over and the second one is well under way. Here are some highlights from the fall. Pictures from top to bottom: ID Concepts project combining a shrimp and a calculator, sandblasting project, color combining exercise, vacuum formed drip catcher, and artichoke server.