A pot : experiments with clay + gen AI
digital ceramics, 2024 - ongoing
This ongoing project explores what happens when ancient craft traditions meet new technology, developing a studio workflow that brings generative AI into the ceramic arts as a design tool. Working with clay and 3D-printing, I'm drawn to the tensions that arise when combining age-old making practices with emerging digital tools. The central question driving this work: can AI enhance artistic practice while preserving the essential human elements that make craft meaningful?
Starting with the simple prompt "a pot" - a form humans have been shaping since prehistoric times - I experiment with various text-to-mesh generative AI models, including open-source tools like Point-E. The process weaves together AI-generated forms, digital ceramics through clay 3D printing, and traditional hand-sculpting techniques. Rather than replacing the maker's touch, AI becomes part of the sketching and building process, opening unexpected formal possibilities while maintaining the tactile, intuitive qualities that define ceramic practice. Developed in collaboration with ceramicist Anna Andersen, these ongoing experiments continue to explore how we might redesign our relationship with both ancient materials and emerging technologies.
A pot has recieved development support from Nationalbankens Jubilaeumsfond.
Starting with the simple prompt "a pot" - a form humans have been shaping since prehistoric times - I experiment with various text-to-mesh generative AI models, including open-source tools like Point-E. The process weaves together AI-generated forms, digital ceramics through clay 3D printing, and traditional hand-sculpting techniques. Rather than replacing the maker's touch, AI becomes part of the sketching and building process, opening unexpected formal possibilities while maintaining the tactile, intuitive qualities that define ceramic practice. Developed in collaboration with ceramicist Anna Andersen, these ongoing experiments continue to explore how we might redesign our relationship with both ancient materials and emerging technologies.
A pot has recieved development support from Nationalbankens Jubilaeumsfond.
Some intial 3D models, generated from the prompt “a pot”.
Model 3D-printed in red clay with a slip wash.
Glazing the model.
A test pot design that incorporates elements from AI-generated models. Hand decorated, 3D-printed mixed clay.
Detail of decoration.
Round container, 3D-printed mixed clay (greenware).
Sample set of “a pot” models.
Model of “a pot”.
Model 3D-printed in black clay. The handle was redesigned digitally to make it a printable shape.
Experimenting with hand-applying engobe between layers to create surface pattern.
A test pot design, 3D-printed red clay and engobe.
Trophy, 3D-printed and hand-coiled red clay with glaze.
Model of “a pot”.
Model of “a pot”.
Double Amphora, 3D-printed red clay (greenware).
Model of “a pot”.
Amphora, 3D-printed red clay with engobe wash.
A pot with handles, 3D-printed red clay.