digital technology & traditional craftsmanship merge in 'candelera' lighting fixture series

Federico Stefanovich’s ‘Candelera’ fuses digital technologies and traditional craftsmanship

Industrial designer Federico Stefanovich presents ‘Candelera’, a line of large-format sculptural lighting fixtures created from a functional approach. In order to accomplish balance in the compositions, multiple parameters such as volume, mass, and density, as well as the distance between the elements, are calculated and projected simultaneously from the shaping of every piece. Simple geometrical gestures in the manufacturing process, translate 2D surfaces into intricate double-curved surfaces assembled to conceal the light source. The project fuses digital manufacturing process with skilled craftsmanship in order to produce raw and minimalistic compositions reminiscent of organic shapes and structures.

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all images courtesy of Federico Stefanovich

a lighting system in complete balance

‘When it comes to have a system in complete balance, there is no halfway, it either is or isn’t’, shares Federico Stefanovich. ‘The approach of conceptualizing a sculptural composition from a functionality perspective is what gave birth to the first pieces of the collection’, he adds.

Looking to respond to a wider variety of interior design needs, the designer wanted to explore large-scale formats that would not only be sculptural compositions but also would act as light sources to complement the spaces they inhabit. For Stefanovich, it was important to go from 3D modeling to a production process that could be as reliable as laser cutting to make sure the calculations made for the balance of the elements were precise. Parametric modeling software was used to arrange the texture holes of the surfaces to be related to the outline shape of the piece.

At the same time, because the many sheet metal sections have been cut, handcrafted metalworking techniques are required to build and join the finished composition in order to maintain a distinctive and meticulous constructed feel. Following the same abstract language and raw aesthetic, other models were developed to investigate various material, finishes, shape, and proportion possibilities. The finished products were then exhibited as classic and sophisticated works of art. The different pieces share the same traits of being balanced, well-engineered, and timeless pieces that complement spaces and relate emotionally to the people surrounding them.

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When it comes to large-scale lighting fixtures, they are always placed and related to the common areas of living and working spaces attributing them a symbolism of community, support, and warmth. Also, the rotation movement present in these pieces brings dynamism to the space and seeks to transcend the inert expression of other sculptural luminous objects. It is relevant to understand the interconnection between humans and objects and aim for the strengthening of that bond to face the over-consuming society we live in.

Long lasting appreciation and use is pursued by creating objects with a timeless design, high-quality craftsmanship, and that relate on a deeper and emotional level with their users. Handcrafted, locally made products not only have an emotional and intentional manifestation but can be produced with a sustainable perspective that can be impactful economically and socially to people involved in the process, Through collectible pieces like Candelera there is a possibility to connect an international, high end, and sophisticated market that praises great craftmanship and artisanal processes to local and talented workshops resulting in economic growth and a deeper understanding of artistic sensibility.

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