Chrisoula Konstantakou
Let There Be Light in the Fire
Summary
My research is exploring 2D digital laser technologies and the future of terracotta in our virtual digital world.
Ceramic surfaces reveal and reflect on the condition that brings them into being. Ceramics has long established technologies in its making that are bound to its material clay. The maker's imprint, the tool that leaves marks, the glaze that runs and coats the surface and the type of firing used all leave hints of how the maker brought the ceramic artefact into being. One is dependent on the other and inseparable after firing.
My practice - led research looks beyond traditional tools & kiln firings and looks into the integration of contemporary 2D laser technology as a tool & a heat source in ceramics. How would the lasered terracotta surface be read, in particular to the understanding of the laser mark making and condition that brought it into being? What happens when you change the technology. How does it change that cultural location of it? Does it sever it from its history?
My body of work illustrates my investigations and explorations into the possibilities of 2D laser technology on terracotta. My work is a celebration of the vessel and the harmony between the language of material and the grammar of surface marks through 2D laser technology. Terracotta clay is at once ancient and highly technological via the laser. This dualism sets up a dialogue between what are the current and historical practices in firing technologies and what might new ones bring. The 2D laser is a modern digital tool which is continuing to develop the long lifeline of prehistory by pushing designs and making methods in the ceramic field forward.
Additional info
My research will contribute to the advancement of knowledge through the exploration and development of a new firing technique that can be accessed by ceramicists who would like to incorporate laser technologies in their works. It is a familiar technology but never been utilised in this unique way to create a new language in the aesthetics of ceramic surface and body - or similar. This contributes to the advancement of technology, knowledge and perception in mark making and firing in the contemporary ceramic field. Alongside the physical experimentation on clay with a 2D laser, I research contemporary and historical precedents through literature and archives and develop collaborative partnerships with ceramic industry and cultural organisations in order to extend relationships and networks, and in doing so can extend my reach, grow my sphere of influence, and magnify impact.
