The Form Collection originated from the expansion of our beloved Tile Collection. The defining features of Form are its use of shape and the introduction of a glaze finish over the clay surface.
The evolution of this collection involved a lot of testing—of different shapes, techniques, and glaze options across three clay bodies: terracotta, sand, and black chocolate.
Crafted with a deep respect for traditional methods, the Form Linear Pendant highlights the beauty of natural materials and the art of design. This distinctive lighting piece juxtaposes contrasting materials in a harmonious way, offering a touch of natural elegance.
DESIGN PHASE
To develop this new collection, we started by simplifying the design to its core elements, focusing on rudimentary shapes. The design team explored a variety of shapes, textures, and dimensions, experimenting with combinations that either succeeded or led us in new directions, gradually refining our approach.
We had refined the Tile Collection over time and understood the process inside and out. However, clay can be quite temperamental. Our exploration of new shapes involved countless iterations, resulting in a wealth of samples from these trials. Ultimately, this journey led us to two final forms: Ellipse and Square.
These classic shapes provide the perfect canvas for showcasing our glaze finishes. Ellipse, with its cylindrical silhouette, and Square, defined by its angular lines, both embrace the LED strip in a compact and refined structure. The textured clay surfaces, in finishes such as dark chocolate and sand speckle variations, are beautifully accentuated by these simple yet sophisticated forms.
CLAY CRAFT
Working with clay comes with its own set of quirks and challenges, but these very idiosyncrasies can lead to beautifully original designs and organic features.
We’re fortunate to work with two dedicated artisans, Scotty and Lu, who embrace the demanding design testing phase with enthusiasm. The Form clay bodies are made in their Melbourne-based workshop, Gargoyles and Dragons.
This process is not for the faint-hearted—it requires patience and a thick skin, as sometimes hours of meticulous work can literally go up in flames.
Each clay type has a distinct “memory,” meaning it tends to revert to its previous shape, complicating the process. Therefore, each clay body—the terracotta, sand, and chocolate black—must be carefully tested and documented. Each 300mm tile is extruded three times using a custom tool to ensure it maintains its straight shape, resulting in slightly unique, handcrafted tiles.
GLAZING GLORY
Each pendant is then brought to life through a time-honoured crafting process that combines glazing and firing. The glazing process involved lots of testing as it is equally precise, with colour and texture depend on consistent preparation and firing. Minor variables, such as weather conditions or kiln load, can dramatically affect the final outcome.
But once we’d perfected it, we loved how the glazes danced over the different patterns on the clay form, their organic appearance highlighted across the long, uninterrupted surfaces.
To finish, Lu applies a glaze to the tile forms. This accentuates the natural beauty of the clay, enhancing its raw, innate qualities and transforming it into a living work of art.
ASSEMBLY
When the Form clay bodies arrive at our workshop fresh from the kiln, they’re ready for assembly. All of our products are assembled in the South Drawn workshop, located in Melbourne.
This is where the careful refinement of Form’s design truly stands out. Each piece slides effortlessly onto our custom extrusion—something not always visible to others, but for those handling the assembly (like our electricians), it’s a clear testament to the artistry involved.
See the product page for customisation options or reach out via our contact page if you require a specification beyond our standard offerings.
