Reference: CHRYSIKOU001
Title: BacTerra
Date: 2021
Author: Nicole Chrysikou
BacTerra is a project proposing the use of the biomineralisation process to create alternative ceramics that do not require kiln firing, are biologically solidified and glazed by non pathogenic, soil born bacteria. By providing a making process where ceramic waste and living organisms are my main ingredients, starting a conversation about the promising possibilities of biotechnology within pottery and traditional crafts.
Media: Bioceramics
Credit: Courtesy of the artist

Description: My main focus as a designer has always been seeking more sustainable methods of working that revisit crafts heritage, explore different materials and techniques with a green edge, and propose new design applications. I like to constantly challenge the status quo and I want to design not only for the present but also for what the future will be.

During my studies I explored the intersection of crafts, science, and technology in diverse projects. My final major project started when I found myself in isolation due to COVID-19 where I had time to rethink my process and unpick every aspect of her beloved craft, that of pottery. By identifying the harmful aspect of carbon-heavy and energy-consuming kiln firings I started exploring alternatives to the current production of ceramics because I wanted pottery to be part of a more sustainable future.

Reference: CHRYSIKOU007
Title: BacTerra [Process]
Date: 2021
Author: Nicole Chrysikou
Details: Documentation of Process
Media: Photographs
Credit: Courtesy of the artist

Description: By making these small samples/tiles I could better understand my material, and test what works better before scaling up my process to create bigger shapes.

Reference: CHRYSIKOU002
Title: BacTerra [Experiments]
Date: 2021
Author: Nicole Chrysikou
Details: Small samples of real material exploring different aggregates and the use colour in the process.
Media: Material
Credit: Courtesy of the artist

Description: By making these small samples/tiles I could better understand my material, and test what works better before scaling up my process to create bigger shapes.

Reference: CHRYSIKOU003
Title: Cradle to Cradle: Remaking the Way We Make Things
Date: 2002
Author: William McDonough and Michael Braungart
Details: A manifesto detailing how to achieve the Cradle to Cradle Design model. The text calls for a radical change in industry: a switch from a cradle-to-grave pattern to a cradle-to-cradle pattern. It suggests that the "reduce reuse recycle" methods perpetuate this cradle-to-grave strategy, and that more changes need to be made.
Media: Publication
Credit: wikipedia.org/Cradle_to_Cradle

Description: Taking an eco effective approach to design might result in innovations that people have never thought of. The most important thing with this approach, is that the solution that may not be found, but the overall shift in perspective of how we see and analyse the environment around us.

The chapter, Beyond Control, from this book made me realise how powerful nature is and how important is to think nature as a co-creator in our design process.

Reference: CHRYSIKOU007
Title: The Volcano of Nisiros
Date: NA
Author: Nicole Chrysikou
Details: Nisiros, Island in Greece
Media: Photograph
Credit: Courtesy of the artist

Description: When I visited this place I realised how magical and unique all the natural mechanisms are. An active volcano, underneath my feet. A hidden world that is so powerful and unique. I wanted to somehow show with my work how hidden elements of nature can create something so beautiful and innovative.

Reference: CHRYSIKOU004
Title: Pottery Tools
Date: 2021
Author: Nicole Chrysikou
Details: This is the set of my pottery tools which I always use when I am working with clay
Media: Tools
Credit: Courtesy of the artist

Description: When I feel confused and I want to get inspired and come up with new ideas/solutions I tend to work with clay, making random forms and shapes. This helps me unveil my thoughts and brainstorm.

Reference: CHRYSIKOU005
Title: Textures of a Summer's Tale
Date: 2020
Author: Nicole Chrysikou
Details: This is a collage of different photos I took during my summer holidays where I was observing the different colours and textures created by nature and how living organisms grow on different surfaces.
Media: Image
Credit: Courtesy of the artist

Description: This collage gave me inspiration for my design process. I was curious to see how nature and biological processes would inform the design, colour and texture of my artefacts.