Fung+Bedford, a renowned design studio, recently unveiled a captivating lighting installation named "Resonance" at Clerkenwell Design Week. This exhibition, housed within the ancient St Bartholomew the Great church, presented a unique blend of artistry and engineering. The studio's signature paper-folding method was employed to craft a series of three exquisite pendant lights, each meticulously designed to complement the tranquil aura of the sacred space. The installation not only highlighted their innovative design approach but also celebrated a decade of their creative journey, showcasing their mastery in transforming simple materials into grand artistic statements.
Fung+Bedford Transforms Historic Nave with "Resonance" at Clerkenwell Design Week
In May, during Clerkenwell Design Week, the venerable St Bartholomew the Great church in London became the stage for a remarkable artistic display. Design virtuosos Ashley Bedford and Angela Fung, the creative minds behind Fung+Bedford, introduced their mesmerizing "Resonance" installation. This project featured a trio of distinctively twisted pendant lights, each a testament to their refined paper-folding techniques. Crafted from eight-meter-long sheets of Tyvek, a high-density polyethylene material resembling paper, these lights were strategically suspended within the church's nave, creating an ethereal glow that resonated with the building's ancient splendor. The designers meticulously pre-scored and bent each sheet, employing fundamental origami folds such as mountain and valley folds, which allowed the material to pleat both inward and outward. At the core of each structure, a twisted LED strip, encased in aluminum, not only provided illumination but also ensured the structural integrity of the delicate forms. The diffused light created a dynamic interplay of light and shadow, accentuating the undulating surfaces of the sculptures. This installation, marking the tenth anniversary of Fung+Bedford's studio, underscored their consistent focus on scale and repetition, evolving from their roots in award-winning jewelry design. The exhibition, which garnered considerable public attention, concluded on May 21st, leaving a lasting impression on visitors.
The "Resonance" installation by Fung+Bedford offers a profound reflection on the power of simplicity and repetition in design. It demonstrates how traditional craft techniques, like origami, can be elevated to create monumental works that evoke a sense of calm and contemplation. The studio's journey from intricate jewelry to large-scale installations highlights a continuous dedication to detail and a belief that form should inherently serve function. This creative evolution inspires designers and artists alike to explore the boundless possibilities of materials and techniques, pushing the boundaries of what is conventionally perceived as art or design. It also serves as a reminder that even in an increasingly digital world, the tactile and contemplative nature of handcrafted art continues to captivate and transform spaces, offering a serene escape and a unique aesthetic experience.