The initial inspiration for this project came from a visit to the RISD Nature Lab, where I was captivated by the intricate structure and form of animal bones, but especially the rhythm and articulation found in spines and vertebrae.
I began exploring ways to translate my inspiration through quick prototyping and sketch modeling, working primarily with scrap wood, paper, and cardboard. These accessible materials allowed me to experiment freely, focusing on form, rhythm, and structure without being limited by permanence or precision.
In my early sketch models, I found it difficult to replicate the qualities that drew me to the bone structures, the consistent repetition paired with subtle, organic variation. That’s why I was especially excited to explore split turning in my next phase of experimentation. The technique offered a more refined and responsive way to capture that balance, allowing me to better reflect the natural rhythms I had been aiming to emulate.
I really enjoyed experimenting with different forms and testing out various ways to connect the split-turned pieces into hand-crafted assemblies. This playful, hands-on process helped me better understand how each element could interact, both structurally and visually. It ultimately guided my final design decisions
Finally, I wanted to translate this formal language into something more functional. I was especially drawn to the idea that my initial inspiration, a spine, is designed to support and hold the body. That connection felt like a natural fit for a small side table, which I envisioned as both a sculptural object and a practical addition to a space. This allowed the piece to embody the structural essence of the spine while serving a clear, everyday purpose.