We set out to create something beautiful and unique. A sculptural piece that also has function. Something that seemed almost impossible. Inspiration came from studying cloud formations and bubbles and we asked ourselves; “can something so delicate and fragile, become tactile, permanent and usable?” We needed something clear, malleable, cast-able, form-able and strong. As resin work has been the focus of our studio for a number of years, it seemed like the logical material to explore further.
Material volume was a main focal point for us. Cost and environmental concerns were motivators when exploring casting and fabrication methods that allowed for making hollow forms that were also structurally sound. We landed on ROTO-CASTING; a method of casting refined in the 1950's, and typically used to make things like hollow metal shells, thermoplastic fuel tanks and later things like roadway pylons, kayaks and children’s playground equipment.
Injection moulding processes soon became popular as "time in the mould" could be greatly reduced which allowed for a quicker, greater production volume. Roto-casting is still however used for certain products with interior shapes that do not require specific tolerances and has since been used with resin for artistic projects and things like making props for the film industry. We aimed to take this idea and method of production and apply it to high end furniture design.
Finally, we wanted to devise an efficient system of small scale production that included variances that make each piece different/one of a kind. By adding successive layers of resin from the inside using a roto-casting method, we were able to build up wall thickness and structure. The result is a form that has a measured and polished exterior while having an interior that tells the story of its creation with smooth and graceful arcs as the resin cures while in centrifugal motion.
The specific requirements for this project led us through a lengthy research and experimental period which had us trying many different mould configurations as well as sourcing and testing resins for viscosity, mould flow, pot life, cure time, and bond strength and pairing that with a reliable casting regime. Our successes with making the OORT tables has us planning for new designs and shapes using the same methodology. Larger vessels as well as lighting projects are in the design stage.
Additionally we've made prototypes that incorporate additives into the resin, specifically recycled powdered glass. This process yields a composite OORT that still maintains its tinted, coloured translucency as well as resulting in a very hard and durable product. Most importantly however, it reduces the amount of resin in each casting.
The current focus of our studio is to exploit this new/old technology and methodology and explore new areas where it can be applied.
