Fusing traditional craft with modern technology By Suzanne Tsang

Intricately laser cut, these highly delicate pieces of table décor combine creativity, ingenuity and conservation. These simple yet sophisticated pieces are a great example of beautiful design, derived from traditional craftwork in conjunction with modern technology.

Currently studying Product Design at the University of Dundee, I put my four years of design experience into practical use for my honours project, with expertise in user centred and service design.

For this year’s Degree Show, I am showcasing a range of decorative tableware made from porcelain paperclay, a material that is a perfect medium for achieving a crisp and paper-like appearance.

Inspired by a passion for hands-on craft, in particular origami, I designed a range of delicate table décor that demonstrates the value of paper. My work challenges the general preconceptions of paper being simply a throwaway material or product. Each delicate piece is evolved from a discarded newspaper and is transformed into an enduring, treasured object.

Working closely within Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art & Design, from one department to another, the process behind these porcelain paperclay pieces is indeed a strenuous one. I started by arriving at the doorstep of the printmaking faculty. I was inducted and trained on paper pulping as well as given the encouragement to experiment with clay.

With the help of technician, Sean Kingsley, who has a background in ceramics, I progressed onto paperclay. Bringing in origami, I used my expertise on this subject and innovated it to a new level by implementing the use of laser cutting technology. Using paperclay, a material that has only been around for fifteen years and mostly used for sculptural use, new doors were opened for this new material.

Designed for the haute couture domestic market and addressing the perceptions of quality, value and high-end design, I hope to sell my product to people who appreciate and are sensitive to delicate and fragile design.

Please do not crumple or throw me away.

Upon graduating in June, I am keen to take this project further and perhaps enrol on the Craft and Creative Business Masters course at the University of Dundee. I hope to produce user focused services or products as well as giving me the opportunity to learn and enhance my design skills and knowledge.