the coconut by bob trempe from usa

In establishing the design concept for “Ceramics for Breakfast”, we explored two opposing theories of thought. The first thought was to create a design that was reminiscent of the Japanese aesthetic in ceramics—where the form and materiality echo the beauty of nature. The second thought was to investigate a basic geometric form that is highly indicative of the Bauhaus. Pure geometric forms become the practical and functional solution in the design of the breakfast setting.
The simple coconut represents the culmination of these two thoughts. The hard rough protective shell and the cool white fleshy edible interior exemplify nature and the concentric forms illustrate geometry. By using a combination of materials, stoneware and china, we articulate the very thought of nature. The outer shell expressed by the stoneware encapsulates and protects the pure white form of the china upon which the food is presented. The geometry of the nested combined pieces forms a sculptural whole that reinforces the duality of these two theories.
Our concept is echoed in the manufacturing process of the pieces. By layering two materials (the outer stoneware and inner china) the separate functions of service and presentation are artistically apparent.