Shape of Gravity is an exhibition of works by nendo for WonderGlass, including Melt, the cast glass furniture and table top collection and including the launch of a new gravity formed cast glass chandelier. The layered design features sparkling glass seemingly floating in the air that when lit create a shimmering effect with light bouncing from one piece to the next. Measuring almost 2.5 metres in diameter, the cascading chandelier will float above the Melt furniture providing gentle illumination that will detail the rippling texture of the glass.
Melt is the new cast glass furniture and table top collection designed by nendo, which further exemplifies WonderGlass’ expertise and dedication to the extraordinary design possibilities within the glass realm. The creation of Melt was a unique and complex production. nendo’s Oki Sato was inspired by watching the craftspeople in the WonderGlass workshops working with molten, melted glass. His intention thereafter was to allow the material to direct the design process. This resulted in a method of laying hot glass sheets over steel shapes, and suspended between steel bars to allow the natural drape of the material to reveal its form.
This concept created a challenge to the craftspeople who had to determine an exacting method of timing and temperature to create the desired result as Oki Sato states:
“I was inspired by looking at the workshops, looking at the people working, using the melted material. The main idea was to let the glass flow by itself using gravity and using the weight of glass itself. In a way, doing less and achieving more is the most complicated thing to do”.
WonderGlass founders Maurizio and Christian Mussati state:
“We are delighted to have collaborated with nendo on the Melt Collection, working together to push the boundaries and capabilities of cast glass. nendo has explored the molten liquid nature of the material with incredible skill for Melt. Together with our master craftsmen in Venice, they have created a beautiful collection of furniture that focuses on simplicity and the form created by the flow of gravity.
Furthermore, the new chandelier making its debut in Milan as part of Shape of Gravity is a piece we are extremely proud of. The prodigious work suspended in the air like a cloud generates an enchanting shimmering effect when under natural daylight and LED lighting. We look forward to presenting this work along with Melt furniture pieces in the Istituto”
WonderGlass will present Shape of Gravity during the Salone del Mobile at Istituto dei Ciechi, Milan.
Address:
Istituto dei Ciechi
Via Vivaio 7
Milan, Italy 20122
