DESIGN NAME: Reflection
PRIMARY FUNCTION: Table
INSPIRATION: The inspiration for this work was to reflect nature's beauty and the relationship between stability and vulnerability. The mountain-like base with a sharp cliff and cave-like shelter conveys this theme, and the earth's depiction invites reflection on the planet's fragility. Chinese ink was chosen for its Eastern aesthetic, and research on copper properties was conducted. The goal was a unique work of art with a deeper message, inviting contemplation.
UNIQUE PROPERTIES / PROJECT DESCRIPTION: This artistic bronze table has a base resembling a mountain and a skeleton or tree trunk, with a sharp cliff on one side and a cave-like shelter on the other. The thin, oval-shaped copper tabletop has a surface pattern resembling a Chinese ink painting. The combination of elements creates a sense of conflict and reflection and a thought-provoking work of art. The use of sculptural language creates a sense of momentum, setting it apart from other tables with its unique design and symbolism.
OPERATION / FLOW / INTERACTION: There is no operational aspect to this table, as it is meant to be a decorative piece. The table is designed to be visually striking and invite reflection and contemplation and can be placed in a variety of settings to enhance the aesthetic of the space.
PROJECT DURATION AND LOCATION: The project began in Beijing in May 2021 and was completed in December 2010, exhibited in Han Dong's solo exhibition at gallery SOHE in August 2022, and was collected by LV Shanghai headquarters in September 2022.
FITS BEST INTO CATEGORY: Furniture Design
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PRODUCTION / REALIZATION TECHNOLOGY: Bronze, chemical reagent heat colouring.
The Reflection Table was created through a combination of research, material experimentation, and collaboration with craftsmen. The designer explored the properties of bronze and copper, as well as the aesthetics of Chinese ink, to inform the design choices. A sculptural approach was taken to develop the mountain-like base and the Chinese ink-inspired pattern on the oval-shaped copper top. Throughout the process, the designer collaborated with engineers and other professionals to overcome technical challenges and ensure the final design met the project's objectives. The table was produced using bronze and chemical reagent heat colouring, resulting in a thought-provoking, functional sculpture.
SPECIFICATIONS / TECHNICAL PROPERTIES: Product Dimensions: Width 600mm x Depth 800mm x Height 380mm. The Reflection Table is a physical design made from bronze with chemical reagent heat coloring. Its mountain-like base features a sculptural form, while the oval-shaped copper tabletop displays a Chinese ink-inspired pattern. The design combines traditional and contemporary aesthetics, creating a visually striking, thought-provoking functional sculpture.
TAGS: Dong Han, table, sculpture, art furniture, furniture, functional sculpture, bronze, China
RESEARCH ABSTRACT: Design research focused on material properties, aesthetics, and symbolism. Exploratory research through material experimentation and collaboration with craftsmen. Research Tools Used: Material samples, sketches, and 3D models were used to refine the design. Research on copper properties, Chinese ink aesthetics, and sculptural language was conducted to inform design decisions, overcome technical challenges and ensure the final design met project goals. A visually striking, thought-provoking table design that successfully combines traditional and contemporary aesthetics, as well as innovative production techniques. The Reflection Table highlights the importance of addressing both form and function in furniture design, while also encouraging contemplation of deeper themes and messages. The design has been recognized for its artistic and functional merits, exhibited at a solo exhibition, and collected by a prestigious institution, showcasing its impact on the design world and the potential to inspire future furniture design projects.
CHALLENGE: During the development of the bronze table, obstacles such as working with copper properties, creating a stable base, and incorporating traditional and contemporary aesthetics were overcome. External factors like production possibilities, information availability, and technology influenced design decisions, including material choice and production techniques. Overcoming these challenges required creative problem-solving, research, and collaboration with professionals like craftsmen and engineers, ensuring the design met the project's goals and requirements.
ADDED DATE: 2023-04-05 18:33:42
TEAM MEMBERS (1) :
IMAGE CREDITS: Image #1: Photographer Lei He, Han Dong workbook, 2021.
Image #2: Photographer Lei He, Han Dong workbook, 2021.
Image #3: Photographer Lei He, Han Dong workbook, 2021.
Image #4: Photographer Lei He, Han Dong workbook, 2021.
Image #5: Photographer Lei He, Han Dong workbook, 2021.
PATENTS/COPYRIGHTS: Copyrights belong to Dong Han. 2021.
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