While a spotlight’s sharp beam invites attention, the gentle glow of a shaded lamp offers tranquility. In his latest collections, “Touch” and “Strut,” Coil + Drift founder John Sorensen-Jolink delves into how lighting shapes spaces and moods. Showcased at “Lookout,” the new Colony exhibition in New York, these collections contrast sharp illumination with soft ambiance, setting the perfect scene for a harmonious interplay of light.
A Dancer’s Touch Transforms Light with Touch and Strut
John Sorensen-Jolink, a designer with roots in contemporary dance, appreciates light’s impact on space. These collections are the result of his collaboration with in-house artisans, translating movement into sculptural lighting forms. His creations redefine how lighting interacts with an environment, embodying the essence of elegance and motion.
For those captivated by innovative lighting designs, explore how Kyoto craftsmen transform surfboards using traditional techniques to create unique and elegant visual effects.
Reimagining the Spotlight with Touch and Strut
“Touch” revisits Sorensen-Jolink’s theatrical lighting experiences, inspired by his upbringing in a theater-influenced home. Initially resistant to the starkness of recessed lights, he now embraces their clarity with a refined approach. Constructed from brass or steel, “Touch” features adjustable shades and wooden elements, allowing light to pivot with precision and intimacy, embodying a refined style of illumination.
“When you step into the light, you perform; stepping out lets you fade away,” Sorensen-Jolink reflects, capturing the spirit of his designs.
An Ode to Quiet Ambiance
In contrast, “Strut” fosters a calm presence, reflecting the steady rhythm of daily life. Drawing from the structural openness of fire lookout towers, it combines wood with subtle metal touches. Elongated linen shades emit a warm glow, reminiscent of campfire embers. This design further highlights the versatility of decorative lighting in modern decor.
A Harmonious Dance Between Light and Shadow
Together, “Touch” and “Strut” bring contrasting light styles inspired by the surroundings of Sorensen-Jolink’s Catskills studio. Through distinct designs, they merge focused illumination and ambient glow, mimicking natural light shifts within the comfort of home, using a perfect amalgamation to balance light and shadow.
Similarly, the tactile dimension in design is showcased by New York’s transformative architectural changes over the past 25 years, revealing evolving aesthetics and functionality.
“Lookout” is open until Oct. 21 at Colony Gallery in New York City.
Source: design-milk.com
Frequently asked questions
What are John Sorensen-Jolink’s latest lighting collections?
John Sorensen-Jolink’s latest lighting collections are ‘Touch’ and ‘Strut,’ showcased at the ‘Lookout’ exhibition in New York.
How do the ‘Touch’ and ‘Strut’ collections contrast?
‘Touch’ features sharp illumination with adjustable shades and wooden elements, while ‘Strut’ fosters a calm presence with elongated linen shades and subtle metal touches, emitting a warm glow.
Where can you view the ‘Touch’ and ‘Strut’ collections?
The ‘Touch’ and ‘Strut’ collections are on display at the ‘Lookout’ exhibition in Colony Gallery in New York City until October 21.
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