Mesa de Oro

Collection of Artefacts
Designed and Produced by Laura Hoyos
at the Royal College of Art, London, 2024

By navigating Laura’s memory and Colombian heritage and conducting ethnographic research on others’ stories, the project Mesa de Oro results in a series of artefacts that evoke visual curiosity. These artefacts encourage people to gather, often around a dinner table, to exchange, share, and explore togetherness. They include tomato cups, a gathering vest, an arepa holder, and more.


(Maize)
10x10CM
Steel
(Arepa)
10x10CM
Steel
(Oro)
10x10CM
Steel
Tomatl No.1
⌀5,5CM
Glass
Series Tomatls
⌀5,5CM
Glass
Tomatl No.2
⌀5,5CM
Glass
Photography by Ricardo Sánchez

Weaving a Practice

Textiles, objects, and heritage played a significant role throughout the process.
Gathering Vest -  Filter Fabric. To hold
Olla (June 2024) A Collaboration with the Wounaan People of Colombia
The word Olla means 'pot' in Spanish, a symbol at the heart of every culinary tradition. This collaboration is a visual celebration of the rich heritage of the Wounaan culture, whose craftsmanship inspires us. Together, we have elevated the humble pot into a powerful symbol of tradition and connection."
Photography by Ricardo Sánchez

The Process

Exploring the relationship between materials and food. This process involved experimenting with metal, glass, and textiles, guided by sketches, drawings, and inspiration from my readings.
                        

(reads and findings) The Cariaco corn (maíz cariaco) is one of the oldest varieties of corn. It was grown by the Cumanagoto community, who called corn erepa, the word from which arepa derives.



From Mde. Colombia
6.129994, -75.502995

Currently here
51.501430, -0.179147

©Laura Hoyos Cardona