The Containa Vase / Champagne Bucket is a hand-blown glass object created in collaboration with Hamish Donaldson, combining function, sculpture and atmosphere in a single form. Part of the Containa series, the piece explores the relationship between a vessel and what it contains. A suspended internal structure appears to float within an opaque, frosted glass enclosure, creating an atmospheric sense of depth, stillness and ambiguity. The softened outer form obscures and reveals the object within, inviting the viewer to look closer and question what is being held, protected or contained.
Hand-blown locally using traditional glassmaking techniques, each piece is shaped through a precise balance of control and chance. The frosted and opaque glass creates a consistent fog-like quality, while subtle variations in form and opacity give each object its own character. Designed to function as both a champagne bucket and vase, Containa reimagines a familiar domestic object as something more considered and sculptural. Its dual purpose allows it to move between celebration, display and everyday use. The work reflects an ongoing exploration of ambiguity, perception and containment, challenging the boundary between functional object and art.
Containa is ultimately a vessel not only for objects, but for atmosphere, ritual and shared experience.
Styled Image Credits: Matthew McQuiggan
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Dean Norton is a multidisciplinary designer and collaborator who develops products that consider form, function, refined detailing and harmony in materials. Drawing inspiration from personal experiences, he aims to create enduring performative works that connect on an emotional level, merging a balance between art and design whilst maintaining a minimalist aesthetic.
Born and raised in Essex, England, Norton originally studied graphic design before continuing his journey as an interior designer, graduating in 2008 with a Bachelor of Arts degree (Hons) in Retail Interior Design from the University of the Arts London.
Now based in Melbourne, Norton launched his studio in 2017, drawing upon his design experience to create visually engaging, locally made pieces including furniture, objects, and lighting, re-imagining a variety of sculptural forms through the exploration of finishes and materials such as glass, mirror, steel, and timber.
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Material: Glass
Dimensions: 300 x 300mm
