The Talavera Project, a collaboration between MANUFACTURA and Uriarte Talavera, marries traditional craftsmanship with digital fabrication. Uriarte Talavera, established in 1824, embodies Mexico’s rich heritage as the first producer of Talavera in the country.
Situated in a historic mansion in Puebla’s city center, Uriarte Talavera maintains the centuries-old tinware manufacturing process, now a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. However, the workshop faces challenges of stagnation and excessive waste generation within its legally protected production process.
The project’s primary objective is to harmonize tradition and innovation, bridging handmade craftsmanship with technological advancement, notably robotic 3D printing. By uniting “high tech” and “low tech,” the initiative aims to redefine the concept of “tech” in general.
Comprising two key components, the project addresses Uriarte Talavera’s concerns. Firstly, an 80-piece column (shown above), replicated from a mold based on a 3D printed piece, showcases a conscious evolution that honors heritage while embracing modernity. Secondly, the process emphasizes water’s pivotal role, particularly in creating the iconic cobalt blue hue synonymous with Talavera.
The Talavera Project exemplifies a sustainable approach that respects tradition while embracing innovation, offering a glimpse into the future of cultural preservation and technological integration in craftsmanship. You can see how the entire process is completed in the video below.
The Talavera Project seamlessly blends traditional Talavera craftsmanship with robotic 3D printing, illustrating a sustainable path forward for preserving cultural heritage while embracing modern innovation.
Source: parametric-architecture.com
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