This
all might sound like tableware befitting a circus convention, but they are
infact the result of some serious applied science in a research project by
Royal College of Art graduate Lina Saleh.
The
plates are made from flexible silicone and form part of an exploration into how
the perception of taste is influenced before we even take a bite, in the
project aptly entitled "Living Plates."
Designed
in collaboration with a chef the flexible plates aim to allow chefs extra scope
in plating creativity whilst also adding an element of surprise and excitement
to the diner's experience. After all, a trembling, folding, pop up or pop open
dish don't often form the ordinary and everday tableware of most
households.
Saleh
also hopes that the project will encourage diners to engage more consciously
with what's on their plate. "The
process of eating dessert is slowed down, as with each force instigated on the
cake, the plate moves as the weight distribution shifts", she explains on
her website.
Take
a look at the living plates in action below:
By Holly Cole/
FDL