Designing Ceramics for Social Events

Abstract

My work considers the role of functional objects in common rituals. I am investigating how handcrafted ceramics can fit the demands of social events in both functional and decorative capacities. Specifically my thesis work is made for use in the graduate student exhibition in the Wellington B. Gray Gallery at East Carolina University. The work comprises all of the serving and diningware for the reception and is arranged as a serving display throughout the duration of the exhibition. A one-handed plate and cup integrated set, designed to have a free hand at buffet receptions while eating, moving around, and socializing is available to be used by the guests of the event. In addition to the body of work created for the gallery space, process materials used in the creation of the work are also on display. The contextual research for this project includes historical analyses of social servingware, interviews with gallery owners, caterers, and event attendees, as well as real-world testing of the pieces. The work addresses the demands and parameters for events at the venue; investigating how handmade ceramics can solve issues of usability, aesthetic opportunities, and waste management. The subsequent goal for this project is to serve as a model that could be replicated at future public events.