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A World Of Sand – ZandGlas
HfG Offenbach
The project explores the connection between natural resources and craftsmanship by transforming sand from around the world into glass. It focuses on the geological diversity of sand and its potential for glass production, emphasizing the value of natural sand with its impurities, chemical variations, and imperfections.
“World of Sand: ZandGlas” explores the potential of sand in glass production, challenging the exclusive use of refined quartz sands in the industry. Through the collection of sand from various areas around the world, an archive was created with the aim of highlighting how geological variations influence the color and transparency of glass, creating unique pieces that narrate the history of the territory through the final product itself.
This process is not merely a technical experiment but an inquiry into the connection between materials and landscape. Each sand sample, fused at high temperatures, reveals unrepeatable shades and textures, transforming each object into a tangible expression of local geology. The project aims to engage communities worldwide in collaboration with geologists and artisans, promoting reflection on the sustainable use of resources and the value of artisanal production.
The archive invites us to rethink the relationship between design, material, and environment, demonstrating that the beauty and value of a material lie in its history and uniqueness, not solely in its chemical purity.
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