Rat – Design Trust Futures Studio

Rat

House of Rats

Designer-mentee: Bob Pang
Collective Master-mentors: Marisa Yiu, Edwin Chan
Lead Curator: Marisa Yiu

Dia. 27 x H 18 cm
Concrete Skim Coat, Recycle PET1 Plastic, Metal

We rarely come across rats. Rats always hide away; however, they are constantly observing us, out of curiosity. This interesting relationship between this smallest zodiac creature and human being inspires a notion to design an imaginary and abstract living space for rats.

“House of Rats” is a set of experimental tableware, composed of two components: a well-proportioned copper-coloured plate crafted by local craftsmen and a series of 3D-print-turn-sustainable-concrete sculpture. The concrete rats depict various abstract gesture, for example, sleeping, climbing, observing, walking, etc. Adding on functionality base on their gesture, the sculptural forms turn into vase, teapot, container pot, incense holder or any function freely imagined by the users.

The work is produced in collaboration with Mig Lau of Moldflip and Ford Zheng, who have introduced the use of eco-concrete from Taiwan for the concrete coating of the work.

Design Process

 

"The fur is actually formed by a handcraft using a brush to brush the concrete coating to have a very textile hairline pattern onto the concrete. Usually when people talk about concrete, it's very distant and cold. But actually it's very smooth and has a lot of potential. That's why I collaborated with a local concrete artist to develop this technique. " - Bob Pang

Project Twelve

 

MicLAU by Michael Lau (2008)

Inspired by the art of Chinese seal carving, Michael Lau created “MicLAU” with a silly expression that echoes the aesthetics of Michael’s street art. The playful rat maintains a balance between artistic endeavours and commercial viability. Project Twelve also collaborated with international jewellery brand, Adler, in the production of “MicLAU”. It is the first attempt for Michael to turn his art into a luxurious jewellery piece.

Remarks: Michael Lau, the creator of “MicLAU”, is not involved in Design Trust Futures Studio 2022. His work “MicLAU” serves as the inspiration of the new interpretation in Design Trust Futures Studio 2022.