thesis lamp by marty schibler from usa

Pleated from a single sheet of paper the THESIS LAMP is an exploration of form which deals with the manipulation of a single planar surface into a volumetric three dimensional form. A translucent roll of paper that was once 4’x 24’ is pleated and folded down to 18” x 9’ using a unique folding technique. Over 500 pleats and creases create the final folded surface, which ultimately has lost its translucency due to the density in layers of paper tucked within it. At any point the surface has five layers of material within it. The two long ends are joined and draped over a nine foot cantilevered pole that houses hundreds of energy efficient LED lights. Layers of the unexposed paper are pulled out to expand the surface and create spherical projections. The density of the folded material is compromised after the intervention. The LED’s reveal the varying layers in material which results in beautiful variations in the opacity of light. The newly shaped forms float in the 3rd dimension and defy its original predisposition to be flat. The once lifeless surface now undulates in and out evoking the illusion that the sculptural sheath is breathing. The precise placement of the globes creates a composition of textures that begs to be touched but isn’t, for fear of crushing the delicate surface. The THESIS LAMP produces ambient light while providing a beautiful understated anchor to any vaulted space. The LED’s provide a responsible source of light while the intricately textured surface showcases the beauty of a work, done all by hand.

This piece is for a living room with a high ceiling and was designed occupy the uninhabitable space. This specific site is not shown.