A lighting piece inspired by resilience and renewal.
Through the Cracks is a sculptural floor lamp made from cork, created for the IESNYC Lighting Competition: A Sight for Sore Eyes. The challenge called for lighting designs that address the discomforts of modern LEDs—glare, flicker, and harsh color temperatures—while enhancing visual comfort.
Drawing inspiration from the 2025 Los Angeles wildfires, this design reflects on the dual nature of light: both harsh and healing. The cylindrical form is cut with delicate vertical slits, allowing a soft red glow to escape—reminiscent of light filtering through burnt bark. Cork, chosen for its natural fire-resistance and earthy texture, symbolizes survival, regrowth, and quiet strength.
More than a functional object, Through the Cracks is an invitation to pause and reflect. It transforms light from something aggressive into something tender, offering a moment of warmth and introspection amid a landscape of loss.
Cutting the Cork Tiles
The process began by hand-cutting circular tiles from sheets of cork. These formed the base structure of the lamp, establishing both the modular rhythm of the design and the natural, textured surface reminiscent of burnt bark.
Material + Light Test
Before full assembly, I tested how the LED interacted with stacked cork layers. This step helped confirm the material's light-filtering quality—allowing a gentle, warm red glow to seep through while minimizing glare.
Construction Process
The lamp was built by cutting circular cork layers and stacking them to form a tall, hollow cylinder. Precise vertical slits were carved to let light pass through, balancing structure and softness.
Final Assembly
After installing the light source inside the form, a custom top cover was added to control brightness and create a diffused, ambient glow. The result is a calming, immersive piece designed for reflection and comfort.