Bacteria are the creators of the abstract pattern of these led lamps designed by Jan Klingler. The designer was fascinated by the possible relation between industrial design and chemistry, whose combination has created some exciting projects recently.
Through the help of microbiologist Volkan Özenci, Jan Klingler was able to rationalize the process and create the “In the new light” lighting collection. The designer started by collecting bacteria, yeast and fungi and left them on a resin disc to grow. Then a nourishment, such as agar, was added to allow bacteria to multiply. The ground was left to harden and reveal the different patterns created by the bacteria.
It is the combination of the different bacteria and the nourishment that creates the distinctive color palette. When the desired pattern was reached, the disks were sealed to deprive the necessary oxygen to grow. The resin plates were then wired up to a LED disk to allow light to shine through the translucent cultures.
The lamps come in four variations, all inspired by laboratory equipment.
Jan Klingler says the idea is to transform our perception of bacteria as a carrier of meaning by picking up on these strong emotional triggers and refocusing them onto something positive.
“Each species of bacteria has its own origin and story. By using an everyday object like a lamp as a vessel, we can bring that story with us into our homes in a new way – one that will alleviate fear of bacteria and promote an emotional bond.” says the designer.
Also, as every place and every person have their own microbiological fingerprint, lamps can be customized by swabbing one’s skin and create a lamp made of bacteria that grow on someone’s own body, on a natural object, or on a place in the city that is emotionally connected to you. “When I started out I wanted to make objects that tell a story, to create a strong bond with the user,” explained Klingler.
“In the new light” lamps were recently presented at Greenhouse, the popular section at Stockholm Furniture & Light Fair where up-and-coming designers and design schools show their prototypes to future partners, producers and customers. Oki Sato of Nendo, the design studio GamFratesi, Form Us With Love and Morten & Jonas are a few of them who begun their careers in Greenhouse.
The Bacteria lamps are currently on display as part of the Young Swedish Design exhibition at ArkDes in Stockholm, until 31 March.
Photos by Jan Klingler.
