Lasvit Laterna Magica
The Laterna Magica exhibition by Lasvit was held at Euroluce, Milan this month. This collection builds on the mutual relation between objects, light and space, while looking at glass from an architect’s point of view.
The name is derived from an early type of image-projector developed in the 17th century. That device used hand-painted sheets of glass, a lens and a bright lightsource to project images. Using video mapping, Lasvit simulates this principle through glass objects and light to tell the unique stories of artistic visions revealed through glass.
These new collections were developed designed by some huge names in design; Zaha Hadid Design, Kengo Kuma, Yabu Pushelberg, Ed Ng & Terence Ngan
Duna & Eve by Zaha Hadid Design
Duna was inspired by the coherent yet abstract logic of dune formations that defy traditional Cartesian geometries. Its design concept is realized in a three dimensional, asymmetrical, pair of intersecting glass forms. The striated surface of the crystal glass produces ever-changing eff ects of refl ection and refraction. Narrowly directed light sources beam light through the mass of glass into the entire glass element, highlighting its geometry.
Eve was composed of fifteen glass pieces arranged in one intriguing ensemble, Eve is chandelier that combines traditional glass-making techniques with parametric design. Informed by Hadid’s renowned design language, the composition is fluid and organic, accentuating differences between clear and smoke elements.
Suspended at varying heights, the glass bodies gracefully fl oat in space and create an impressive play of light and shadow. Its sculptural qualities, notable in daylight, open to new dimensions in the evening.
Yakisugi by Kengo Kuma
The Yakisugi collection is inspired by the ancient Japanese technique for preserving construction timber by charring its surface. Kengo Kuma explains;
“The idea behind Yakisugi collection is about questioning the materiality of glass and natural wooden texture. My intention was to plumb the depth of wooden soul, captured inside the glass.”
Using dry wood in place of traditional pre-soaked molds, the wood is charred by molten glass. That leaves a permanent imprint of its scorched texture on the glass surface, making each piece an authentic original. This slight modification to a centuries- old technique produced a modern and minimalist collection that combines simple geometric forms with unusual organic textures.
Cipher by Yabu Pushelberg
The Cipher collection for Lasvit is a juxtaposition of heritage techniques and modern form. Inspired by the versatility and texture of surface-patterning and the way in which it catches light, the delicate hand-blown crystal cylindrical pieces are cut with clean, clear lines. With components arranged in series and joined by polished champagne-gold finished connections that emit light, Cipher’s overall linear form creates a poetic visual rhythm.
Regardless of the configuration, there exists an inherent simplicity and earnestness in the effect of light playing off these delicate, perfectly clear etched glass cylinders.
Flux by Ed Ng & Terence Ngan
The Flux collection was inspired by light reflecting off the ocean in shallow water and the traces left by the receding tide. Each lamp is handblown using a metal mold to provide its unique appearance. The clear top meets with inner and outer hand-painted gold and platinum layers, referencing the decoration of traditional Asian ceramics.
Its organic lines trap and refract light between the layers to create a deep radiance and the impression of water in motion.
Keep an eye out for more on these products and designers later in the month…