This project involves exploration in ceramic processes, ceramic properties, different methods and techniques used in pottery, study of contemporary products in ceramics. A detailed study of the different processes was done by visiting various places where pottery is in practice. An extensive study of different kinds of lighting in ceramics was done and a major focus was on to decorative and traditional lighting.

The aim of the project was to identify the area of scope, and then develop a new lighting experience. Exploration was started with different basic forms and then more intricate and new forms were developed. While creating organic forms problems of breakage were dealt with and new ways of strength reinforcement were identified. Explorations were done by sandwiching cloth between the layers of slab. After putting cloth inside the clay slab, it becomes stable and flexible as cloth and then can be folded and formed into a complex form easily. Initially bandage cloth was used as reinforcement then cotton cloth was used to improve the strength.

This new technique gives the strength to the clay slab and allows it to be folded easily without any crack and once the article is dried, it is ready for firing. After firing cloth burns and the clay article retains the form given to it. Therefore it is easy to create new forms that are almost impossible without this technique. Later the forms were also tried out with various textures.

This technique can be used in large scale production for a huge range of products. Cloth being an inexpensive reinforcement medium can be used widely with different arrangements and in many combinations for industry manufacturing.

A new range of the products was made using the same slab technique. Three forms were finalized and explored in different combinations. Final clay articles were combined with other materials such as brass plate as a base, and a wooden frame and wooden base tray. The range falls under mood lighting and the entire product range was designed such as to create a new lighting experience. As the product is contemporary and at the same time a traditional piece of art so the best would be to place it in a space which goes with its richness. Theme based restaurant and resorts could be the best place to fit this product. Yellow light and candles are used to retain the traditional essence in the lighting, and terracotta is used to position the product as decorative traditional lighting.

Case Study Downloads:
• Exploration in Terracotta - Pdf