Altering Traditional Utilitarian Forms – Ceramics by Ian Andersson

Photo of Ian Andersson in his studio by Michael A. Muller

Minimising the separation between craftwork and industry is vital for progression in the design world. This includes rethinking the way in which we combine hand made work with industrial methods and machinery. For example potters could be experimenting with plaster moulds to create prototypes, still considering the tradition and origins of the craft but reaching out to a wider audience.

I thought Ian Andersson was particularly relevant in this respect, another young creative who’s producing eye-popping work that’s sculptural with an underlying twist of functionality. Designed and produced by Ian himself in Philadelphia, he creates these by first producing a prototype and then casting the form in plaster. This method of casting means that he can reproduce this fantastic craftsmanship over and over for more people to enjoy.

His overall aim is to deconstruct and warp traditional utilitarian forms that we use everyday. Although visually different, they work and function in a similar fashion to everyday objects like cups and bowls. These dramatic and bold looking objects alter your perception of functional goods and challenge the way in which they work, alongside developing something that’s unusual and quirky. Hopefully you admire them as much as I do and will take a look at his work on his website/shop, where you can now also buy from the collection.

aandersson.net

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