Ox Lantern

Ox Lantern

Craft Plywood and Kapor wood, acrylic, hand-waxed finish

W 130 x L 170 x H 220 mm

2017

A lantern inspired by the abstract characteristics of a Chinese zodiac year, in this case my own, which is the Ox.

Commonly associated traits of the Ox include sturdiness, solidity, strength and

stubbornness. I decided to focus on the keyword “steadfast”. “Steadfast” is

defined as being resolute, dutiful, firm and unwavering. I feel I embody these

characteristics most of the time, and the times that I do not, it is a good

characteristic to aspire to.

I interpreted “steadfast” as a form that is stable and difficult to topple over. For

that I decided to utilise triangles both structurally as well as visually as a motif

for the lantern. The lantern has a triangular base, to increase stability. Symmetry

was also used to an extent to create a sense of balance and stability, while also

making use of asymmetry to achieve greater dynamism and prevent the lantern

from becoming too static.