I have always been interested in geometry, but it wasn’t until a couple of years ago that I really got into exploring the geometric patterns that you see in our Ori Collection.
In 2017 I was invited by the Baltimore Museum of Art to give a workshop related to the exhibition "From Digital to Damask" by fiber artists Annet Couwenberg. You can go to her website to see her amazing work: www.annetcouwenberg.com
When I saw her work what fascinated me the most was her pleated textile sculptures. The intricate and elegant geometry of these organic sculptures and the transformation of a simple flat surface into a beautiful repetitive structure. I felt this beautiful connection between art, patterns, and nature.
For the workshop, I begin exploring and experimenting with how by folding a flat surface we can create form and volume. I folded so much paper until I understood the different geometric patterns you can design, the relation between lines, angles, and dimensions. How the flat pattern behaves in a new and different way when folded, bringing to the material the ability to transform into a tridimensional object.
“ Folding Techniques For Designers From Sheet To Form” by Paul Jackson was my guidance in this exploration. A book that I will always recommend if you want to work with this design tool.
The workshop was a great experience and gave me the opportunity to continue exploring folding techniques. I first worked with paper and then translated its properties to the fabric. Paper has a memory. Once you fold it the mark remains on it, but the fabric behaves in a very different way. After experimenting with different textiles and processes I found the balance between the flexibility of the fabric and the firmness of the paper to design a new collection of pendant lamps.
Exploring folding techniques and geometric patterns I also came across the familiar concept of "organic geometry". Geometric forms grow and develop according to the principle of symmetry and proportion. We can create any form or shape without the use of measurement tools. Structure, proportion, symmetry, harmony, and rhythm can be expressed by geometry, finding the same beauty and wisdom we see in nature, its principles of growth, and patterns. The construction of the ‘golden section’ is one example showing the beautiful process of ‘organic geometry.
Image by Rafael Araujo - www.rafael-araujo.com
What I love about this family of lamps is that is always growing. A modification of the lines and angles of the geometric pattern changes the final form creating new possibilities to add a fresh piece to the collection. Visit the collection
