Functional Sculptures - Boyd Alternatives

One of the unique properties of design is the relationship between form and function, and the harmonious balance achieved between aesthetics and utility. This relationship was keenly present in the first bath Deborah made in collaboration with acclaimed sculptor, Fiona Orr. Between them they wrestled with 350 kilograms of clay, moulding it to the wire armature form in a process more akin to sculpting than product design.

While the nurturing, sculptural form was a conceptual starting point, the needs of the bath as an object with a functional purpose informed the entire process. Deborah and Fiona hopped in and out of the bath as it took shape, testing the comfort and physical experience of the bath they were creating.

The first bath took over three months to complete and today are still a painstaking endeavour, taking up to a week to produce. The baths continue to be hand-made in Melbourne, although the process has moved with the times. Deborah says that advances in 3-D printing technology have been ‘liberating’, opening far greater opportunity for testing new ideas, and new forms of concrete now allow for denser and finer finishes.

Whichever way new technologies continue to change the making process, in each vessel the legacy of the sculptural and intentionally functional original design is clearly felt.

Boyd Alternatives also create bathroom sinks in concrete and bronze, and concrete kitchen benchtops.