The Nova collection of ceramic vases is meant to be a bridge between the past and the present. In a way, it speaks of the evolution of the techniques used to create ceramic pieces, but also of the similarities between the old and the new digital techniques. The collection is designed to inspire creativity and playfulness, while maintaining a subtle yet strong graphic presence.

The Nova collection is based on very simple geometric shapes; this apparent simplicity is counterbalanced by a rich texture that plays with light and shadow, giving the collection a strong presence and a very recognizable personality. This ribbed or wavy texture is present all around the sides of the ceramic vases, right up to the edge of the vase opening.

These small, rounded ribs that run along the vase are a nod to the ancient technique of coil pottery, in which a coil of clay is rolled by hand and then used to build the shape of the pottery, layer by layer. The round ribs are clearly visible before the coils are pinched and flattened. This technique is the oldest pottery making technique, dating back to prehistory! But it also points to the future, as 3D ceramic printers also build the shape by extruding clay in a way that is very close to traditional coil pottery, but with much thinner coils.

The inspiration for this collection also comes from the vernacular architecture and artifacts of West Africa with their very earthy and handmade feel. You could almost feel the hand of the artisan making these vases if they were hand molded, except here they are too perfect and regular. They were printed in 3D before being cast. In an almost unnatural and surreal way, except for their height, they're all basically the same, reinforcing their digital origins.

Taken together, the vases give the impression of a small village or landscape, as if the structures were made of the same material as the ground around them. As if these imaginary constructions were made of cob, that traditional building material made of clay, water and straw.

These vases have been defined in two very different sizes. One part of the collection is designed to be placed on the floor, while the other is much smaller and will typically be used on a tabletop or sideboard. The collection is designed to be vibrant and graphic even if used without flowers or branches. The Nova collection is meant to be playful and allow people to create lively settings by playing with the different heights of the ceramic vases.