Grow in your own way
Cor Unum challenges students to take part in Design Contest ‘Grow’. Ambassadors Gijs Wouters and Ruben Hoogvliet of Atelier Fig. call on you to answer the following question: How can designs contribute in a positive way to the changing needs of people and nature? Think about what you consider important and what you want to see grow.
Looking for balance
Growth is a dynamic process of development and progress. A process in which, unfortunately, we humans have pushed too far. Because of our actions we have grown beyond sustainable limits.However, could these same actions encourage balance? We invite designers and changemakers to experience, monitor, but above all, encourage a sense of connection with nature and the surrounding environment. How do you use the power of ceramics for a fertile future? Let your creativity flourish.
We want to invite you to think about themes directly related to this topic. Consider biomimicry, for example. Be inspired by the ingenious solutions and beautiful forms and structures of nature itself. Or explore the concept of “Small Green Happiness,” inventing designs that promote the well-being of both humans and nature on a small scale. At both the micro and macro level, consider how ceramic designs can contribute to the integration of greenery in the urban environment.
Explore the following questions. How can ceramic designs create emotional and sensory connections to nature? Or how can growth processes be incorporated into ceramic objects, taking into account organic growth, patterns and structures? In addition, we encourage you to conduct botanical research and explore innovative projects around food. Go on a journey of discovery into the origin of materials or think outside conventional production methods. Discover the “green” possibilities that lie ahead.
Planning
- I’m in / Register via the button or this link from Monday 11 September 2023. Deadline for registration is 11 March 2023
- Here it is / Monday 15 April 2024 Deadline for prototype submission or delivering in Den Bosch
- You’re the one / End of April 2024 Announcement of nominees
- Here I am / May 2024 Pitch by the nominees and awards ceremony
Jury
The permanent jury consists of chairman Mary Hessing (Editor-in-Chief WOTH), Bao Ya Fei (Design Curator), Anne van der Zwaag (Director and owner OBJECT Rotterdam) and Charlotte Landsheer (Director Cor Unum). This year as guest judges designers Gijs Wouters and Ruben Hoogvliet (Atelier Fig.).
Awards
From the submissions, 15 designs will be nominated. These will be exhibited a few weeks prior to the jury day at Cor Unum. On the jury day a 1st (€500), 2nd (€300) and 3rd (€200) prize will be awarded. In addition, a public prize will be selected by visitors from the exhibited nominated entries. This winner will receive a gift certificate from Cor Unum worth €100. The winner of the first prize will be mentored by and at Cor Unum in researching the production of their design and bringing it to market.
Conditions of participation
- The prototype submitted may be in any material, but must be ultimately be able to be produced in pottery or porcelain.
- You give Cor Unum permission to produce your design
- You give permission to use your design and presentation in publications
- You give permission for your design to be part of an exhibition
- Once your design is nominated, you are expected to attend the award ceremony or be available online.
