Polluted Plants to Pottery

Phyto-extraction at De Ceuvel

Phytoextraction is a regenerative technique in which plants absorb heavy metals such as lead, zinc, and cadmium from contaminated soil. At De Ceuvel, a circular incubator in Amsterdam, Anke Wijnja has been applying this method for years to restore the soil. The plants that absorb these metals are harvested, analysed and archived. To find a respectful application for these plant residues, Designer Marte Mei has developed a series of ceramic glazes made from the ash of these plants, in which the heavy metals cause its coloration. She has created objects that play a role in the regenerative cycle of the restoration process, thus forging a tangible link between the environment and the objects that emerge from these processes. This project is featured as part of the (W)aardewerk exhibition by Crafts Council Nederland, which focuses on the role of ceramics, craft, and sustainability in the sector.

Ceramic tools and Seedlings

This project showcases two series of objects: ceramic tools and seedlings from phyto-extraction plants that visitors can adopt. The tools, such as rakes and seeders, are designed to support the environment at De Ceuvel and contribute to both the physical management of the site as well as fostering interaction between humans and nature. These tools are activated during a workshop at De Ceuvel, where participants learn more about the regenerative process and actively contribute to the maintenance of the garden. The workshop not only provides practical knowledge but also facilitates a deeper connection between the participants and the more-than-human inhabitants of De Ceuvel. Visitors to the exhibition can adopt a seedling in a ceramic cup, glazed with ash from plants and soil from De Ceuvel. To use the cup, the seedling must first be planted, allowing the visitor to actively contribute to a regenerative process in a new environment. In addition, by doing so, visitors simultaneously give De Ceuvel's plants a chance to continue living - even if the De Ceuvel’s site will get a new destination.

Regeneration and Design

This project raises broader questions about the role of craft and humanity in regenerative processes. How can design contribute to the restoration of ecological imbalances? Marte Mei, the designer behind this work, operates according to her self-formulated methodology of ‘Land-Allyship.’ This means that in her design practice, she strives for an alliance with nature. In her work, she examines site-specific ecological challenges and seeks ways in which design can contribute to restoring these imbalances. The tools she designs are not only functional; they also aim to help people reconnect with the natural world. In this project, which is presented as part of the (W)aardewerk exhibition, Marte reflects on the question of how materials emerging from regenerative processes can guide the creation of the objects we live with.