alissa volchkova revisits the origins of glass as sand to craft granulated decor objects

‘sand crack frost’ uncovers new potentials of glass

In a world where glass is purely regarded as a cold, transparent, and reflective material, Alissa Volchkova challenges preconceived notions about the medium’s potential by uncovering its unpredictable and almost magical nature. Her recent experimental project ‘Sand Crack Frost’ delves into its natural state, revisiting its origins as sand, utilizing crushed, recycled glass to craft a series of decorative homewares. The project draws inspiration from the renowned ‘ice glass’ technique — also known as crackled glass — developed by Venetian artisans in the 16^th century, though employing new methods that explore textures, colors, and form. As a result, each object with intricate surfaces composed of small granules, is unlike the next.

all images courtesy of Studio Lippzahnschirm

alissa volchkova revisits 16th century venetian glassworking

Deviating from traditional glass making methods, Alissa Volchkova introduces a distinct process that creates captivating surface fissures by revisiting the natural state of glass — sand. Unveiling and embracing its unusual and complex characteristics, the designer experiments with its various textures and granules crafted from crushed glass, known as ‘frit’. Further, through manipulation of touch and color, Volchkova infuses a new dimension to the glass that prompts us to question its inherent properties. Central to the conception of ‘Sand Crack Frost’ is the intricate heating program employed to fuse the granules together while avoiding their complete melting and the typical shiny surfaces. The challenge lay in striking a balance between different firing temperatures to ensure each shape and texture achieves its intended effect.

‘Sand Crack Frost’ was crafted for the Ashes and Sand exhibition curated by Alice Stori Liechtenstein, founder of Schloss Hollenegg for Design. Alongside other contributors, the works will be on display until July 2023.

Alissa Volchkova presents ‘Sand Crack Frost’

the project draws on the ‘ice glass’ technique developed by Venetian artisans in the 16th century

Volchkova’s process creates captivating surface fissures by revisiting the natural state of glass — sand

the experimental process explores textures, forms, and tones

an intricate heating program is employed to fuse the granules together while avoiding their complete melting

due to the unpredictable nature, each object is unlike the next

project info:

name: Sand Crack Frost
designer: Alissa Volchkova

designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: ravail khan | designboom