Four powder-coated steel rings align vertically to resemble the crinoline, a 19th century hoop skirt. The 180 multi-colored polyester threads which connect to the rings enhance the image of the skirt to where we can envision the woman wearing it.
Like much of Dutch designer Susanne de Graef’s work, her lighting collection, called Rhythm of Light, appears simultaneously airy and graceful. The lamp takes inspiration from the cyclical movement of the sun. Four powder-coated steel rings align vertically to resemble the crinoline, a 19th century hoop skirt. The 180 multi-colored polyester threads which connect to the rings enhance the image of the skirt to where we can envision the woman wearing it.
The rings can be raised and lowered with a counter-weighted string, creating variation of shape and shadow projection. The subtle color distribution of the threads creates the optical illusion of light refraction.
Studio Susanne de Graef, which de Graef founded in 2010 upon graduating from Design Academy Eindhoven, utilizes light and textile to draw emotion and hint at nostalgia. In parallel to the Rhythm of Light’s homage to the structural beauty of the crinoline, de Graef credits early twentieth century Philips light bulb posters for the aesthetics of the Glint Light collection, in which she “explores the genesis of artificial light.”
Other de Graef projects include floor cushions for the Freistil Rolf Benz collection, created in textile left over from Freistil sofas, whose seams create geometric shapes, and a subtly plush, yet structured armchair.
