During this year’s Dutch Design Week, Meijer is part of the “Copy Nature: Elementary Sentiments” exhibition of objects crafted at the Beeldenstorm artists’ workshop, for which she made three containers out of cast metal. “A remarkable characteristic of copper and copper alloys like bronze is that it acts as a cellular poison for germs: Recent studies show that products made of copper have up to 95 percent fewer microorganisms than those made of other materials,” Meijer says. “Especially objects that are frequently touched by different people, that property offers a new tool in preventing the spread of infections.” The tableware—called Touchables—responds to use by developing a localized patina and by killing any associated germs. “A nice side effect is that food presented on bronze surfaces stays fresh longer,” Meijer notes.