Noguchi Lantern Studies
In 1951, Isamu Noguchi visited the town of Gifu, Japan, and there, he designed the first of his lamps, which would be produced using traditional Gifu methods of construction. With the warm glow of light cast through handmade paper on a bamboo frame, Isamu Noguchi utilized traditional Japanese materials to bring modern design to the home.
During my senior year at the Hotchkiss School, the culminating project for my architecture class involved studying Noguchi's lanterns and crafting a functional, real-life version. Among the four miniature designs I created, the third one captivated me the most.
To bring my vision to life, I meticulously cut each piece of wood at an angle, ensuring smooth corners and precise alignment. Utilizing wood glue, I securely affixed the paper, capturing the essence of Noguchi's iconic style. Additionally, I incorporated LED light strips into the interior, infusing the lantern with my personal touch by enabling it to dynamically change colors.
2019