kelly kim's mokumé lamp is a synthesis of japanese traditions and modern design

korea-born designer kelly kim’s ‘mokumé’ (jap. ‘wood’) lamp is a result of a deep research of japanese cultural traditions. made from aluminum and wood finished following the techniques of japanese craftsmen, the lamp is a synthesis of the country’s traditions and modern design.

‘japanese people are selflessness,’ kim describes her impressions after spending two weeks traveling through seven different cities of japan visiting art museums, craft experts, and artisan stores. ‘it is a lot about the community and their non-verbal language which embedded deep in the culture is a way of respecting others. however, they have a powerful strength when it comes to expression especially in art, craft, and appearance behind their calm silence.’

in this project, japanese tradition was followed through maintaining the integrity of woodcraft and then applying an industrial method, sandblasting, to reveal the unique grain within. defined by the japanese cultural story of strength behind silence, the mokume pendant celebrates the unity of materials, the integrity of the process, and the emotional experience it offers.

the working process

sandblasted wood 

sandblasted wood 

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: maria erman | designboom