Diploma / 2019

graduation project from l’ENSCI-Les Ateliers
Directed by Aïssa Logerot
Photo : Véronique Huyghe

Exhibition “Diplorama”, Galerie Joseph (Paris, 09/2020)
Exhibition at the “Biennale Émergence” (Pantin, 10/2020)

In a few generations our way of life has changed drastically. Like the water scoop, objects and customs developed over centuries have become obsolete. In the face of the environmental crisis, our way of life must change again.

But engaging in drastic changes is complicated, often asking too much of the user. Why not go back to basics? By rediscovering forgotten traditional uses, “Us et coutumes” encourages the change of our most personal, ingrained and polluting habits.

The project is divided in two parts, one tackling our current diet habits, and the negative impact it has on the world. The other part focuses on domestic water use, in relation to body hygiene. Both parts offer a progressive and positive view on changes toward durable habits.

Hygiene utensils update the use of the washcloth to reduce water consumption.

Everytime we wash ourselves with a washcloth instead of a shower, we save 80 liters of drinkable water. But in our society showers tend to become the norm, becoming longer and more regular with each generation. I started with analysing our relationship to hygiene. Researching objects that were used before running water came into our homes, I discovered traditional ceramic sets. This led me to design contemporary ceramics, dedicated to washcloth hygiene.

Made out of ceramic bowls and textiles, the objects adapt to our habits and home. Every detail unconsciously pushes us to save water, from the shape of the container to the textile selected. Finally, the “grey water” is kept and can be used to water plants or gardens.

Liberated from running water, personal hygiene isn’t limited to the bathroom anymore, and can adapt to our real needs, while bringing back value to water.