Introducing The Pangolin Shield and Studio Saar‘s Bamboo at London Design Festival
Situated prominently on The Strand outside London’s Somerset House, The Pangolin Shield pavilion captivates with its striking resemblance to a scaly mammal, offering a thought-provoking commentary on Britain and India‘s colonial past. Designed for the London Design Festival, this structure, incorporating natural bamboo from Studio Saar, combines art and history in a location rich with significance near India House.
The pavilion’s placement near a bust of Jawaharlal Nehru, India’s first prime minister, underscores the evolving relations between India and the UK. As Ananya Singhal, co-founder of Studio Saar, explains, the intersection of cultural narratives at this site presents a unique occasion to explore shared histories.
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A Collaborative Effort Using Studio Saar’s Bamboo and Sustainable Materials
Studio Saar, alongside Atelier One, employed a bamboo grid shell to craft this pavilion, highlighting the material’s sustainability. Lightweight, biodegradable, and versatile, their bamboo forms the framework, supplemented by durable steel fastenings. The pavilion’s exterior showcases two distinct types of shields, connecting past and present.
The initial layer incorporates traditional Indian police shields crafted from lathis, reflecting the colonial history of crowd control. These are overlaid with woven knups—rain shields from Meghalaya, renowned for its lush rains and nickname “the land of the clouds.”
Artistic and Conservation Inspiration
An avid wildlife photographer and conservationist, Singhal was inspired by the pangolin, the world’s most trafficked mammal. This pavilion invites discussion on conservation while providing visitors a cultural and artistic experience, including a sculpture nestled inside. Their bamboo plays a crucial role in this artistic discourse.
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Though affected during transport, the pavilion stands resilient with an interior scaffold. This precaution ensures safety amidst the festival’s lively atmosphere.
Studio Saar’s Vision and Legacy
Reflecting Studio Saar’s ethos, the project exemplifies combining simple craft with grand aspirations. The use of bamboo is central to “The Pangolin Shield,” a testament to ingenuity and collaboration, weaving together elements that resonate with history, art, and sustainability.
Photography by Taran Wilkhu captures the vibrant essence of this landmark installation. The pavilion is part of the London Design Festival, showcasing innovative designs from 12 to 20 September.
Source: dezeen.com
Frequently asked questions
What is the Pangolin Shield pavilion?
The Pangolin Shield pavilion is a striking structure resembling a scaly mammal, designed by Studio Saar for the London Design Festival. It offers a thought-provoking commentary on Britain and India’s colonial past.
What materials are used in the Pangolin Shield pavilion?
The pavilion incorporates a bamboo grid shell crafted by Studio Saar, highlighting the material’s sustainability. It also uses durable steel fastenings, traditional Indian police shields, and woven knups from Meghalaya.
What is the significance of the pavilion’s location?
The pavilion is situated on The Strand outside London’s Somerset House, near India House and a bust of Jawaharlal Nehru. This location underscores the evolving relations between India and the UK, exploring shared histories.