When it comes to ceramic and design, we – Studio Joachim-Morineau – are trying to push the boundaries of traditional methods with innovative techniques such as the MOCA Machine. The unique ceramics of MOCA Tableware, combines a bit of technology with aspects of handcrafted ceramics, creating pieces that are as beautiful as they are distinctive. But what exactly makes our MOCA Tableware collections so special? Let’s explore our fascinating process in this first blog post!
How the MOCA Machine works: Merging technology with tradition
The MOCA Tableware ceramics are created using a custom-designed “MOCA machine” (see the pictures). It operates on the principle of controlled dripping. The process begins with liquid porcelain or earthenware being dripped through a nozzle, the size of which can be adjusted to achieve different drops. The plaster mold, placed on the machine platform, rotates and moves along the X-axis.
This platform is controlled by an Arduino system, a microcontroller board that allows for adjustments in speed, movement, and the rhythm of the drips. The drops create patterns on the mold side. We then go back to a regular ceramic process, with liquid clay poured inside plaster molds.
This “MOCA process” isn’t just about automation. It’s about creating a new design and aesthetic language that blends the consistency of machine production with some natural imperfections. The software controlling the machine is custom-coded by us at Studio Joachim-Morineau. It makes it easy to fine-tune or experiment with every aspect of the dripping process.
The uniqueness of MOCA Tableware: Every piece tells a story
One of the most fascinating parts of our ceramics at MOCA Tableware is the uniqueness of each piece. While we produce multiples of the same form thanks to molds, the patterns created by the dripping glaze and the ‘Moca Machine” are never identical. This is due to the natural variations that happen in the process. Slight differences in the porcelain flow, rotation speed, pigment, or movement of the platform all contribute to creating truly unique collections.
Each ceramic piece we produce at MOCA Tableware becomes an experiment, where technology and nature meet. The result is a collection of ceramics that aesthetically are both mathematical and organic: the beauty of randomness.
The MOCA project isn’t just about creating beautiful objects; it’s about experimenting with what ceramic design can be. By pushing the limits of traditional techniques and incorporating technology, we, at Moca Tableware, are developing a new form of ceramic expression. This approach allows us to explore endless possibilities of design, creating ceramics that are not only functional but also unique.
If you have any questions, feel free to reach us by email. We will gladly answer about how the unique ceramics of MOCA Tableware are made.
Each MOCA Tableware piece tells its own story. Just pick yours!
Carla & Jordan