Terra |
2019
Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
Clay Explorations
Photography: Dirce Ruas
Terra is a collection of terracotta vases and cups that embrace the imperfections inherent in handmade clay. The ensemble combines the precision of wheel throwing with the irregularities of hand-building techniques. Departing from the pervasive digital design landscape, Terra is a return to a material-centric, tactile practice.It pays homage to the rich clay heritage of Iraq, especifically drawing inspiration from the unglazed water vessels, jars, and cups that have long played a role in purifying and cooling water within the hot-dry climate of the country. Known as Heb, these traditional water vessels were crafted from locally sourced untreated clay, skillfully moulded by local artisans, and resided in every household, way past modern times.
Growing up in a house with a Heb, placed in a shaded corner of a sunny courtyard, to cool our drinking water during scorching hot days, makes this collection a nostalgic nod to past cultural practices and personal experiences embodied by these clay objects.
