orbu is a beautifully crafted object that intertwines the precision of Al with the ancient craftsmanship of lost-wax casting
Designed By: Oscar Thomson
Materials: Hand semi-polished stainless steel.
the story of orbu
Orbu's creation was anything but conventional, blending the new and emerging technology of Al with the ancient art of lost-wax casting. As someone fascinated by the potential of Al, I wanted to explore how this cutting-edge technology could enhance a concept I'd been envisioning for a while — a planter made from spun metal.
Spun metal is a technique where a flat sheet of metal is rotated at high speed on a lathe while a tool shapes it into a smooth, symmetrical form. This process is ideal for creating lightweight, strong objects with seamless curves, making it the perfect choice for many designs. However, as I delved deeper into the Al-driven design process, I was pushed to consider a more intricate form than metal spinning would allow.
The design process began with me sketching a series of ideas and then uploading them to an Al program. Using prompts related to material choice, design style, and function, I aimed to generate lifelike concepts. As the Al began to understand my intentions, the ideas evolved in fascinating ways. A concept emerged that fused the solid nature of metal with an organic essence, pushing the boundaries of what I initially envisioned.
While Al provided a wealth of inspiration, it was my professional design skills that guided the process. I took the Al-generated concept and brought it into my own digital modelling platform, refining it to reflect my vision. The slanted posture and semi-enclosed form of the design were key elements that I honed, navigating the complex technological challenges to make the product truly my own.
Given the intricate, organic contours of Orbu, I realised that metal spinning wouldn't suffice for the level of detail I wanted to achieve. This led me to choose the ancient process of lost-wax casting— a method where a wax model is used to create a detailed mould, which is then filled with molten metal. This technique, with its roots in history, was ideal for preserving the unique value and complex details of Orbu, challenging mass production and ensuring each piece was distinctive.
In the end, Orbu became more than just a planter or a serving bowl-it's a beautifully crafted object that intertwines the precision of Al with the timeless craftsmanship of lost-wax casting. This fusion of modern technology and ancient tradition allowed me to explore new possibilities and refine the final product in ways that felt both innovative and true to my artistic vision. Orbu stands as a testament to the powerful synergy of blending Al with an ancient process, resulting in a design that is both unique and enduring.
