Illuminated Benches Defy Practicality in their Beauty
Gil Cohen — December 12, 2012 — Art & Design
References: designboom & likecool
Known for his unusual incorporation of light into his various works, artist Ivan Navarro teamed up with sculptor Courtney Smith to create these stunning Illuminated Benches.
Set in public spaces, the benches defy all norms regarding the traditional roles of lighting and furniture. Benches are commonly found in parks and are often taken for granted as people sit on them without paying any attention to their structure and design. These benches, however, are made out of extremely breakable neon tubes that could shatter if sat upon. The bright light makes people pay attention to the benches and at the same time, prevents them from actually using the benches in any practical way.
These Illuminated Benches completely disregard traditional notions of what a bench is for, brightening the park with their neon light.
Additional Sources: likecool | designboom
Photo Credits: likecool, designboom
Set in public spaces, the benches defy all norms regarding the traditional roles of lighting and furniture. Benches are commonly found in parks and are often taken for granted as people sit on them without paying any attention to their structure and design. These benches, however, are made out of extremely breakable neon tubes that could shatter if sat upon. The bright light makes people pay attention to the benches and at the same time, prevents them from actually using the benches in any practical way.
These Illuminated Benches completely disregard traditional notions of what a bench is for, brightening the park with their neon light.
Additional Sources: likecool | designboom
Photo Credits: likecool, designboom
Trend Themes
1. Neon Furniture - This trend of using illuminated neon tubes in furniture designs can open up possibilities for creating unconventional, visually impactful pieces that deviate from what is considered 'practical.'
2. Functional Art - The blend of art and functionality in the Illuminated Benches highlights the potential for more artful yet usable public seating designs that can elevate the visual appeal of public spaces.
3. Light Sculptures - The Illuminated Benches serve as a prime example of how light can be manipulated to create visually stunning sculptures that can alter the atmosphere and ambiance of the space they occupy.
Industry Implications
1. Public Seating - The Illuminated Benches suggest an opportunity for designers to experiment with the form and function of public seating, challenging the norm and creating designs that provide an engaging alternative to traditional benches.
2. Lighting Design - Working with light as a medium for design can inspire a refreshing take on illumination, creating pieces that can stand on their own as sculptural art pieces or tie in with other furniture designs.
3. Art Installations - The Illuminated Benches can be used as inspiration for designers to create more public art installations that bring people together, transform spaces, and engage the senses in unique ways.
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