Ceramics and Recycled-Glass Integration Methodology Study:An Application of Decorative Lighting Design.

Abstract

Ceramics and glass exist in the same group of materials; compounded by the same inorganic substances and with which when treated with heat exhibit a very similar transformation process. However, they are structurally different resulting in varying rates of expansion and shrinkage. This creates incompatibility problems, in the form of excessive cracks or stresses when they are combined. This research aims to experiment to find possibilities of combining ceramics and recycled glass for decorative lighting design regarding both materials share similar characteristics with regard to passage of light and their translucency.

The research methodology was related to practice based research, consisted of research in art and design and pure practice process which were implemented to identify potential compatibility and combining techniques. The development of these techniques were based-on a review of relevant literature, analyzed and concluded into 3 possible processing routes. Quartz added bone china clay body was identified and used with recycled bottle and window glass in the exploration. The kiln-formed techniques; fusing, slumping and casting were used to create the prototype artwork. Design inspiration was drawn from “Star ceiling: patterns and elements from Thai Traditional Architecture” and simplified version of these elements were used in the design to make contemporary artworks while at the same time maintaining a sense of Thainess and reflecting the artistic identity of the researcher.

The experimentations results are present in the prototype artworks as follow; lighting sculptures, stained glass partition and table lamps which are demonstrated the translucency enhancement of ceramic clay body combining with recycled glass. Furthermore this research also expected to raise society’s awareness and aesthetic appreciation of ceramic and recycled glass design which will be able to benefit the further development of creative art and eco-friendly design product in the future.

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