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Lamp Project (due after 12 hours or four class periods)

LAMP by Karen Loeffler, Fall 2008 student.
Synskin, bulb, socket, and cord.

Link to student projects.

GOAL

aking a functional object like a lamp requires safety measures, material choices, construction techniques, and design considerations which may go beyond those of typical fine art projects. Electricity is a potentially dangerous phenomena which must be respected and understood. Also, lighting generates heat, so minimizing the risk of fire is of utmost importance. And finally, a functional object by definition serves a utilitarian purpose (in this case, providing useful light).

esthetics in this project begin as form following function, and is built upon from there. Make your design decisions on mechanical necessity augmented by visual dynamics. Look at elements in the underlying structure of the Platonic Solids. This will inform you of possible formal variations. Rely on the form's symmetry to create new, more involved and complex designs. Developing a relationship between the underlying structure and your added extensions will make your project unique and alive.

he shapes of extensions can be derived from geometric or organic forms. Directional movemet can be achieved by leaning the shapes in regular ways. Chaotic or seemingly random interrelationships between the extensions can also be deliberately created. The original surfaces of the underlying form will be seen through the negatve spaces between the extensions. Use this to create deeper patterns.

ll design work should be done through full-scale paper models. By working this way, it will be easy to re-design by tearing things apart, augmenting, and re-arranging. Feel free to tape, staple, glue, or simply paperclip sample units together to help speed up the design process.

My job: encouraging you to change your minds and change the form as you work.

Look at the work of these artists and designers:

• George Hart