London-based designer Lee Broom is known for taking light in interesting and unexpected directions, inspired by Brutalist Architecture or even the drape of fabric, frozen in time by a dip in plaster. Alchemist, his latest collection, will launch during this year’s International Contemporary Furniture Fair. The concept begins with sculptural metal forms, from a reading of the Paul Coelho novel of the same name.
’The Alchemist’ resonated with me on many levels. It occurred to me that we designers and artists are also alchemists, physically creating something from nothing that has function, beauty and purpose. And at the core, I always design primarily from a place of emotion, which emphasizes the notion that everything is connected, physically and spiritually. These stories from mythology and folklore are rich with drama and intrigue. They become a great source of inspiration and knowledge and the stories still resonate and influence the world today. They are metaphors for life.”
The new collection has four unique lighting ranges: Mythos, King, Solstice and Gemini – in pendants lights, chandeliers and wall sconces. It focuses on the traditional welding of brass, while combining this base metal with glass, acrylic and leather. Broom’s London factory created everything in house.
Mythos
A brass pendant light formed of two sculptural interconnected links capturing an illuminated glass orb. Suspended from a hand-stitched leather strap which acts as a sling for the links, concealed connections make it almost impossible to determine how the orb generates its illumination.
King
A majestic chandelier which intersects the boundaries of art and design, King is formed of individual brushed metal leaves which have been folded, tapered and brushed by hand to create multiple tiered rings, each concealing a hidden illuminated glow which envelopes the golden leaves, casting shadows and light.
Solstice
This design references the prehistoric monument Stonehenge and its spiritual rituals around the Summer and Winter Solstices. The illuminated opaque glass globe of Solstice alludes to the sun, and the square brass structure which encases the globe references the monolithic form of the stone. Taking cues from 1960s lighting design, Solstice is where mid-century meets midsummer.
Gemini
Gemini explores the classic characteristics of the astrological sign identified by the twins Castor and Pollux from Greek mythology as well as serving a nod to the equipment, crucibles and flasks used in alchemical workshops. Two opposing halves connect asymmetrically to create one linear illuminated product. Gemini can be hung horizontally or vertically.
For more on Lee Broom and ICFF, visit here.
Story by Stephen Treffinger
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