Greek designer Yiannis Ghikas has created a 3D-printed vase with a ribbed surface decoration inspired by science fiction special effects that show creatures moving under a person's skin.

Starting with the outline of an archetypal vase, Athens-based designer Ghikas added a three-dimensional decoration to one side to create the impression of something pushing through the surface from inside.

"I was always impressed while watching science fiction movies when a foreign organism or a parasite was moving underneath the skin of a human being, altering its smooth surface with its own form," said Ghikas.

The use of 3D printing enabled the designer to create a shape that transitions from a smooth to a ribbed surface.

Ghikas added that the shape also references the metallic blades that emerge from beneath the skin on the hands of comic book character Wolverine.

"I wanted to incorporate these striking movie images discreetly in this specific object, adding a 'mutation' that gradually appears and disappears and aesthetically disturbs its smooth surface," the designer explained.

The ridges increase in depth towards the middle of the vase, enhancing the sense of its surface being stretched from within.

The vase is printed from ABS plastic by 3D printing firm Shapeways.

Photography is by Giorgos Vitsaropoulos.