Process and nature

Inspired from the natural process of the formation of a hen’s egg, German designer Kaja Woelky has developed a new method for producing porcelain products.

Kaja Woelky’s analysis of the growth process of egg shell has made it possible to transfer this organic process to a technical one where the layering process is fundamentally different from conventional casting.

Similar to organic egg growth, where calcium attaches itself to the egg membrane, the porcelain slip (diluted clay that is strained to a smooth consistency) is wrapped around a device that will serve as the framework of each creation. Referred to as “pneu”, the machine is surrounded by a rubbery ingredient named “alginate”. This substance, normally found in seaweed, draws the moisture from the porcelain slip, allowing the adhesion of the minerals on the pneu. As with organic egg production, this grants the replication of multiple thin sheets by the rotating movement of the mechanism.

Because of this method, it is possible to implement formative components. For example, grains or seeds can be placed between the individual coats, which will leave a porous structure inside and a haptic surface outside after burning. Based on the forms of the pneu, differing vessels are produced that are characterized by a sustainable scheme. The innovation lies in the possibility to manipulate the shape of the porcelain significantly.