Dig In 2023

Dig In - jewellery objects for a contemporary dining culture reimagines eating utensils, encouraging users to actively participate in the design. By handcrafting each piece from silver, the utensils are personalized for optimal handling, reflecting a return to past customs. The designs explore three potential directions for the future of cutlery: reviving old traditions, blurring the line between decoration and function, and enhancing the connection between the user and the object. 

With the changing eating culture and the influence of international cuisines, Dig In - jewellery objects for a contemporary dining culture invites viewers to consider how the form and type of eating utensil suit their needs. The exploration of the historical context of cutlery, spanning from the 16th to the 18th centuries, is coupled with an analysis of table manners and customs from prehistoric times to contemporary practices. The examination reveals the evolving relationship between food and utensils across various cultures, illustrating how societal changes have influenced dining traditions. The project seeks to honor tradition while considering its future relevance, aiming to preserve its legacy in the face of evolving dining habits and cultural shifts. A workshop with participants further explored new approaches and forms for eating utensils, emphasizing sensory perception and handling over mere functionality. 

photos: Jan Buschmann & Marvin Hillebrand 

clothing : René Niesénberg 

models: Malte Kämmerling, Hadidja Kpekpassi, Ruth Magers und Jimu Kobayashi