grow

context

This project was developed in a material study course in collaboration with Sydney Diers. The brief was to design and fabricate a mold for glassblowing based on an action. We selected the verb “grow” as the conceptual foundation.

concept

The project interprets growth as a bottom-up, organic process, inspired by natural systems. Rather than representing growth literally, the mold was designed to embody the movement and expansion found in nature.

The form draws from mushroom structures, symbolizing regeneration, interconnectedness, and continuous cycles of life.

process

• Defined “growth” as an upward, expanding motion

• Researched natural growth patterns and organic forms

• Chose wood as the primary material to reinforce the connection to nature

• Modeled the mold digitally using Rhino

• Fabricated the structure using CNC cutting

• Assembled the mold with screws for stability and precision

• Collaborated with a glassblowing expert to produce the final piece

key decisions:

• Using wood to align material with concept

• Designing the mold to guide glass expansion from bottom to top

• Translating an abstract verb into a physical form

• Combining digital fabrication with traditional glassblowing techniques

outcome

A glass vase with an organic, onion-like form that visually expresses upward growth. The final piece reflects natural expansion and layered development, embodying the idea of growth through both form and process.

reflection

This project taught me how to translate an abstract concept into a physical object. I learned to think through materials, not just form, and to consider how fabrication methods influence the final outcome. It also reinforced the value of collaboration and how combining digital tools with traditional craft can produce more meaningful results.