Designing with carefully selected up-cycled or recycled materials is at the forefront of my design ethos. The Ecotribo ‘Fire Cluster’ pendant lamps demonstrate the individual grain qualities of Oakwood and the unique qualities created by the ancient burnt wood technique of Shou-sugi-ban (Yakisugi 焼き杉) .
I’ve always been inspired by artists who dance on the cusp of creation and destruction. That wonderful place between life and death; ying and yang, it’s an edgy space I love to play in. The craft of making something beautiful & classic out of the world’s finest materials and then leaving mother nature to make her mark. Out of destruction a new beginning. I started burning my artworks many years ago because I loved this edgy aspect but have recently discovered it’s an ancient technique called Shou-sugi-ban Yakisugi 焼き杉. a Japanese technique that preserves wood by charring it with fire. The process involves charring the wood, cooling it, cleaning it, and finishing it with a natural oil. I love the wonderful unique colours and shapes that are created, reminiscent of the first lamps used somewhere in an ancient cave. Its final shape reminds me of some ancient tribal cave yet works beautifully in a modern home.
Production of acorns starts at the age of 20 to 50 years. Oaks produce more than 2000 acorns every year, but only one in 10 000 acorns will manage to develop into an oak tree. So it’s important we upcycle the wood if we can and make something beautiful to be enjoyed for years to come.
These lamps are hand crafted out of upcycled Oak beams on a wood lathe in Bristol, United Kingdom. Then finished, using a flame torch. Acclaimed for its exceedingly strong and durable qualities, Oak is a traditional hardwood generally associated with geometric forms. The ‘Fire Cluster’ lamp challenges this perception by demonstrating a unique combination of modern day technology, combined with this ancient technique, providing something completely unique and organic. The final pieces have then been oiled, polished, and then fitted with vintage brass fittings and dimmable LEDs. We don’t use plastic fittings, only the finest brass we can find, so it will last for generations.
For more information about the Ecotribo ‘Fire Cluster’ pendant lamps range and for any bespoke inquiries please contact info@ecotribo.com