'Draco'

160 x 130 x 50

Wood, papier-mache, light bulb, acrylics

A dragon-shape lamp, build on a wooden branch, out of papier mache, acrylics, and an umbrella. Suitable for private, as well as indoor public spaces.

The idea of making lamps out of organic structures fascinated me, especially after living for 10 long years in a country where during half of the year people rely on artificial lighting sources. The process of creating each lamp is unique, but usually takes from a week, to a month. The work is tedious, but fulfilling and rewarding.

In that particular case, the shape of the dragon’s body follows the curves of the branch, creating natural gravity point for achieving the right architectonics. The bulb inside the dragon’s mouth represents the desire/lust for life. We all know from folklore, the dragon symbol is usually juxtaposed to the symbol of beauty and innocence, represented by a female figure. In that case, the dragon is peacefully resting, shining its mysterious light around, and waiting for the right moment to spread its wings. Peace and dynamics are deeply intertwined in its posture, as if to remind the transiency of each moment. The use of umbrella for the wings adds an urban element to the myth, a nostalgia for the magic of the past ages.

I named the dragon ‘Draco’ after the name of the constellation in the far northern sky. Its name comes from the Latin word for dragon.