Nao Tamura's Seasons Leaf Plates

According to designer Nao Tamura, her piece ‘Seasons’ is “an interpretation of functional kitchen and serving ware, inspired by nature and technology, through the cultural lens of Japan.” Each leaf is made of flexible silicone that is oven-safe and can be easily wiped clean. In their open state, they nest together neatly, or can be rolled up for storage. Of her inspiration for the project, Tamura says:

In the land where I grew up, spring is a time when Japanese sweets come wrapped in cherry leaves. In summer, a fiery ripe tomato is carved out for use as a serving container. In autumn, fallen foliage from maple trees decorates the dinner table. And, the aroma of bamboo create the setting for winter. Just as winter is followed by spring, there are things that wither and are those born anew. Both truisms run deep and are able to move us from our core. Is this the cycle that dictates life on Earth? In design, a brand new object with nary a scratch, and an object weathered and distilled by sustained use, both have their place. An object which has ceased to be useful can be recycled to begin life anew, in a fresh form. We must remain conscious of this cycle that exists in nature, just as we are conscious of the cycle of seasons.

Nao Tamura's leaf serving plates