Intervention 03 : Tracing Clay Objects
Last updated
Last updated
I have been working on developing a framework to asses objects or materials based on how much we know about them. I tried to apply it to the objects that I already own/have at my place.
Origins & Traceability (Where does it come from?) Geographic Context: Where is this material found? Is it region-specific or widespread? Natural vs. Processed: Is it raw or has it undergone transformation before use? Sourcing Methods: How is this material traditionally obtained? Is it sustainably or ethically sourced? Clay from Barcelona vs. clay from another part of Spain—how does location impact its properties and cultural use?
Cultural & Historical Context (What stories does it carry?) Traditional Uses: How has this material been used historically in different cultures? Artisanal Knowledge: Are there specific communities or craftspeople associated with this material? Symbolism & Meaning: Does this material hold cultural, spiritual, or political significance? Clay in Catalonia being used in traditional ceramics vs. its role in indigenous pottery in India—how do these histories differ?
Making Process & Craftsmanship (How is it shaped?) Transformation Process: What techniques are used to work with this material? Role of the Maker: Is the process driven by human skill, industrial production, or both? Imperfections & Uniqueness: Does the making process embrace irregularities or aim for perfection? Hand-shaped clay tiles vs. factory-produced tiles—how does craftsmanship affect perception and value?
Sensory & Experiential Qualities (How do we experience it?) Tactile Qualities: How does it feel, smell, or change with time? Emotional Connection: Does interacting with the material evoke memories, nostalgia, or certain emotions? Material Storytelling: Can the material tell a story through its texture, marks, or transformation over time? A handmade clay pot that carries fingerprints vs. a mass-produced ceramic bowl—how does the sensory experience differ?
Personal & Collective Heritage (What does it mean to me/us?) Personal Connection: What is your relationship with this material? Did you grow up with it? Have you worked with it before? Local vs. Global Identity: Does this material tie into your own cultural identity or belong to a shared global heritage? Evolving Narratives: How can this material’s heritage be preserved, adapted, or reinterpreted for the future? Your personal journey of collecting and processing clay—how does this become part of your own heritage and the evolving story of the material?
