The "Dining In" Plate Series

Created for the Dining In Installation, the Dining In plate series was an exploration of the sensual and aesthetic appeal that nature holds for mankind. Throughout time we have incorporated patterns of nature into our homes as rugs, wall-paper and murals, linens and clothing — while being insatiably all consuming.

The style of these plates is contemporary, illustrating that patterns used in antiquity continue to have appeal in modern abstract and expressionistic styles, while remaining faithful to the actual animal skins.

In researching these, I visited zoos and education facilities to get up close visually, and even have a tactile experience when possible. The closer the experience the more tantalizing each of these animals became. The exotic animals were selected for their contrast, beauty and exclusivity, usually a sign of wealth and privilege. Zebra, Leopard, Tiger, Serval, Elephant, and Giraffe are represented in this series of 12 plates.

The medium of glass was also chosen for its beauty and timeless nature, and gaining the skills to create these plates specifically for the Dining In installation was a necessity. Each plate is a signed original, approximately 12″ in diameter, formed of glass that has been fused in repeated firings and sand-etched at various stages.

K. M. Ehrenfeldt, 1986