In ancient times, glassblowing molds took inspiration from natural shapes, like grape clusters.
In Roman times, molds became reusable, improving the process.
Today, molds enable mass production of uniform products, while manual blowing introduces variations based on time in the mold and glass thickness. Thinner walls yield more accurate copies. This interplay between controlled and uncontrolled processes impacts design, blending tradition with modernity, balancing light and shadow.
In this project, I designed a series of glass tools inspired by the shapes of grape clusters. Using a two-piece mold, I experimented with different textures by creating molds from plaster. Through observation, I discovered that even if the mold was not fully extracted, the hot glass could still be removed from it. This led to variations in the vessel's shape, depending on the thickness of the glass and the duration of blowing. As a result, I was able to produce a diverse collection of vases using just a single two-part mold.
Attempt 1: Innovating with fused glass bubbles by employing soda as a glass reactor.
Attempt 2: Enhancing glass aesthetics through the art of staining.
Attempt 3: Blending vibrant colors and captivating bubbles in a harmonious union within the glass medium.
Attempt 4: Experimenting with plaster molds to investigate the impact of diverse textures on the ultimate form of the product.
