Recent Prints

This series of pots begins with a cylinder defined in computer java code. I have written the code such that on each run of the code the cylinder is distorted by introducing randomness - what I think of as mutation. A distorted form is captured and setup to morph between the distorted form and the cylinder. A series of files are then produced representing the animation between these two extremes.

A Paradigm Shift

A fourth way of making in clay

During the last discussion session of the Towards a New Ceramic Future Symposium at the V&A I was intrigued how the subject of a paradigm shift was raised from the floor. It was as much about the influence of digital tools on making as 3D printing specifically. In my experience there is certainly something going on, and digital tools undoubtedly offer new ways of working. But form me it will always be combined with traditional materials and techniques knowledge, it’s an evolving continuum.
A point I should have made and this is about working in ceramics, is that I do think 3D printing - or whatever it comes to be called, now offers a new and fourth way of making in clay. In broad terms I have always thought of three approaches to working. Handbuilding, that includes pinching, coiling, slabbing and all its combinations. Secondly throwing on the potter’s wheel, and thirdly moulding in all its many forms. Printing is not moulding as there are no moulds to be made. There are elements of throwing but the process hugely extends the limitations. My printing process could be seen as mechanical coiling but I don't think you can call it handbuilding! I am suggesting 3D printing in clay, and however it develops will become recognised as a fourth way of transforming formless clay into desired ceramic shapes.

Towards a New Ceramic Future

Victoria and Albert Museum, Hochhauser Auditorium, London
17 January 2012

I was invited to do a presentation at this symposium that brought together leading exponents in the field of 3D printed ceramics to disseminate recent research findings, share knowledge, and to discuss scope for future developments.

The programme of speakers represented both industry and crafts perspectives, in order to present a balanced overview of the field to a diverse audience, including artists, craftspeople and technologists. You can view the presentations on the link to the Centre for Fine Print Research website below. Audio copies of the presentations and discussion session
are to be added.

Centre for Fine Print Research, Bristol University website

Photo: Tim Regan

RapMan Printer
Printer cartridges
Compressor

Roundhouse

An Exhibition of Ceramics, Textiles & Wood by Jonathan Keep, Hitomi Mckenzie, Malcolm Ross-White, Barry Stedman, Helen Minns and Tim Plunkett

Roundhouse, 5 Trinity Gate, Epsom Road, Guildford,
GU1 3JQ

Following the success of last year's 'Pop Up' exhibition Roundhouse and Chalk Hill Contemporary Art have joined forces once again to show a selection of innovative Craft, made by six original artists who live and work in Britain.

Curated by Annabel Agace, and coinciding with the summer show at Chalk Hill, the art gallery she runs in her modernist house, this interesting juxtaposition of work will inhabit the unusual setting of Roundhouse's kitchens & furniture showroom in the centre of Guildford. Both exhibitions enable visitors to see work in domestic environments. All work will be for sale.

Chalk Hill website

UNFOLD

Full credit for the 3D ceramic printing technique I am using must go to the Belgium design studio Unfold. I had been making syringe forms by hand but it was Unfold who source the RapMan digital printer and refined the process of attaching a syringe to a 3D printer. With a desire to continue Unfolds generosity in sharing knowledge I have post my early printing progress on the Unfold-fab blog in support of the pioneering developments they have made in ceramic 3D printing. Visit the blog link below to for more detailed information on the printing technique.

Unfold Blog

Unfold Website