Following his studies at the Design Academy in Eindhoven, Vasco Veríssimo has developed into a material researcher, blacksmith, and maker of knives, and experiments with the use of sustainably and locally sourced ore. Together with graphic designer Marta Alves, he developed the open-source research platform www.earthenmatter.com, where he shares his process and findings. With the support of Stichting Stokroos, Vasco and Marta aim to further experiment with patinas, heat treatment, and finishing, and to expand their platform.