Exploring Process with Omer Arbel

May 5th, 2011

Omer Arbel likes to explore the possibilities of material and process, working with master crafts people to stretch the boundaries of techniques such as glass blowing and sand casting.

On show at the Spazio Rossana Orlandi this year was number ’19’, a set of sand blasted copper bowls – which are more installation pieces than functional items.

They represented one of 2 projects by the Canadian architect and designer – the other being his beautiful glass blow number ’28’ lights for Bocci.

Omer spoke a little about both pieces, but it was his description of the making process of the number ’19’ which really captured our attention.

“Typically in most design and architecture situations, there’s a shape or form born in the author’s [or designer’s] imagination and that shape informs the work.

“What we’ve been focussing on in the last couple of years is an approach where we design systems of fabrications, and these systems yield form.

“Here we’re exploring a technique called sand casting – an imprecise and coarse way to manipulate and make metallic objects – like fire hydrants for example.

“Here, you take a wood shape, press it into sand to make a void/cavity and pour metal into it, roughly, very coarsely, filling up the cavity. You shake away the sand and there’s your piece.

“Here, we developed a mould system, but there’s a very large opening around the perimeter of the mould; we pour the liquid metal in, over-pouring so it overflows from the cavity, and of course we can’t control the overflow.

“These aren’t necessarily functional as a piece. It’s not necessary for it to be functional; we’ve done it because we’re interested in the process and results.

“I collaborate with crafts people. I used to think the designer’s role was to also become involved in the making, especially because our approach relies on the process of making, heavily. And in the beginning I made all the pieces myself.

“Since then I’ve learnt that I can spend a lifetime learning to be a great designer or great architect and that would be a lifetime of pursuit… but unfortunately I only have one. You need to devote an entire lifetime to become a master glass blower or sand caster, or any of these techniques.

“So that’s how I see my role now, and I consider it a collaboration. It’s my role to harness that energy (and their knowledge) and propose unconventional things.”