RE:Invigoration

Our final solutions for the Re:Invigoration project included a small range of homeware applications that engaged the delicacy of Songket textile and the functionality of ceramic structures. We developed prototypes for both lighting and seating solutions that we felt reinvigorated the materials by combining them in a dynamic way. By showcasing the Songket textile through illumination and contrasting it with its polar opposites, the rigid attributes of the ceramic and rattan, we were able to produce innovative products that would revive the Songket industry and utilise a beautiful weaving technique of the Iban people. Not only did we aim to preserve these deteriorating crafts by creating a new use for them, we also aimed to reinvigorate the way the public and consumer viewed the textile, by giving it a new functionality that was perhaps in the past restricting this consumer market.

Our Final Exhibition Display

The Lighting Solution

The design concept based on a motif which is incorporated into both the shape and the feature of the lighting is scalable and adaptable. Using extrusion dyes of varying sizes the light can be manufactured in any size. A large feature light as a focus in a foyer is as easy to create as a series of lights which combine to form a dynamic light show in a large shopping centre or a series of tiny motif lights similar to fairy lights in an outdoor setting.

The extruded form could be cut to any length. The carved incision work creates employment opportunities for artisans who would be employed to give each piece the final handmade touch.

The object can potentially be hung from the ceiling or placed on a table or wall as an effective and unique lighting concept.

By varying the basic motif contained within the design bother corprations and individuals may be offered a product which expresses a global message in a public space or a very private and individual narrrative in a home. This is enhanced by the Songket which can be designed to suit the needs of the end user - colour and design creating an endless range of potential markets

The Seating Solution

The backlit Songket serves as the “pearl” of the design, and becomes a more significant feature depending on the time of day. The rattan casing plays the role of the “shell”, and would be woven using the expertise of the Songket weavers.  Both the rattan exterior and the porcelain top would be sourced locally and prepared by its artisans. This manufacturing process would support the economy (through exports), the environment (through efficient use of natural resources) preserve the culture (through design) and its people (through employment).

Therefore, the Songket weavers and Iban people would have their work showcased on the world market and this would ensure the practice’s survival through global appreciation.

An example of our envisioned use of products in a corporate setting

All ideas were arrived at together, however each team member had a crucial role to play in the resolution of the Reinvigoration project. Especially in the beginning, we found our ideas were too refined, and needed to be scaled back to a more appropriate use of materials and to aim the products at wider, more diverse audience. This in turn would compliment our goals to produce a stable income for the craftsmen to continue their traditions. We all played to our strengths to work together- Mitchell brought a technical knowledge of materials and structures to our ideas bringing a much needed practicality to our solutions. Lou brought her design and textile knowledge to aid the production of ideas by linking concept to the outcome. Both utilized their graphic skills to create the poster panels for the final exhibition. Pari was critical in idea generation and brought an acute knowledge of ceramics to the production of the final outcome and prototypes.