folding mosquito lamp by christy oates from usa

Folding Mosquito Lamp is a furniture accessory with a dual function. When the lamp is not being used, it hangs on the wall as two-dimensional composition on maple veneered plywood with laser-engraved images representing a central array of almost-completed origami mosquitoes as if they were in mid-fold. These purple-colored mosquitoes appear in a repeating scaled pattern as if they are being drawn to the image of a light bulb in a socket on a hanging cord which droops down and back up within the plane, disappearing behind a slice in the wood. A switch at the bottom reveals a light source behind the veneer which gives off an ambient glow. Pulling on the chain at the front of the lamp exposes geometric planes of the lamp which fold outward, completing the front half of a lampshade. The remaining image of the drooping cord completes the base shape of an iconic lamp form. Fully unfolded, the LED source gives off more light as it reflects off the mirrored surface on the inner planes. The exposed graphics underneath the “shade” display the end of the cord in an electrical socket and the transformation of the origami mosquitoes to their completed folded form. The “shade” planes hold their structure with the use of magnets and bungee cord tension running through channels within the wood planes. After use, the planes fold back into the wall frame with ease in a fluid motion.

The interactive aspect of this piece creates an awareness of how furniture performs within our personal space and its importance in daily routine as an extension of the body. The origami graphics symbolize a two-dimensional surface that folds into a three-dimensional object. These graphics echo the folding process of the lamp while it’s being transformed. Like origami, the folding process involves effortless hand manipulation to fold the material into its intended form.

In addition to origami, my inspiration for this work originates from nomadic living in small apartments, resulting in the continual reorganization of my own personal space. The compact nature of the lamp in conjunction with other furniture pieces I have created provides more open space and promotes an efficient use of a small living environment. This allows a small space to be in constant flux; transforming from one activity to the next throughout the day as furniture is taken off the wall, used, and put back into its frame. I am passionate about environmental conservation; I choose to take up less space and create less waste in my personal life and in the work I create. My furniture is designed in Rhino, laser cut out of sheets of sustainably harvested plywood with minimal material waste, assembled using eco-friendly adhesive, and sealed with water-based finishes. The flat-pack aspect of the work suits a mobile lifestyle for those who move frequently while reducing the cost and pollution associated with shipping and relocating.

When grouped together, these pieces establish a transformative personal space that becomes a fluid extension of the body, creating a ritual performance of efficiency that diffuses into one’s lifestyle.

A video of this lamp in transformation can be seen at http://tiny.cc/JsCy0