The Wood Urns reinterpret traditional Japanese cubic wooden vessels through a contemporary funerary lens attentive to ritual, impermanence, and material responsibility. Rather than relying on permanent engravings, identification and text are inscribed on a cardboard label designed to biodegrade naturally in the soil, in contrast to conventional metal or plastic labels. A larger-format version of the urn introduces a recessed space, protected by a sliding glass panel, allowing the insertion of messages and children’s drawings to accompany the deceased.

Part of the On Funerary Ashes and Design Project

—

Produced for Memoria. 2015—
Dimensions: 19 cm x 19 cm x 30 cm

Images: Bob Beck