In a harmonious blend of history and modernity, the Monumental Collection by Zeynep Boyan is a testament to the enduring allure of ancient architecture. This captivating series of lighting fixtures, crafted during her artist residency at Luminaire Authentik, draws its inspiration from the grandiose structures of ancient civilizations like the Romans, Byzantines, and Hellenists. Boyan successfully translates the timeless elegance of classical design into contemporary forms, creating pieces that are both deeply rooted in the past and strikingly modern.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Artist: Zeynep Boyan
Collection: Monumental Collection
Residency: Luminaire Authentik
Inspiration: Roman, Byzantine, and Hellenistic Architecture
Medium: Stoneware Clay
Zeynep Boyan’s journey to creating the Monumental Collection is as unique as the pieces themselves. With a background in cinema, Boyan ventured into the realm of sculpture and design, exploring themes of identity, connection, and belonging through her chosen medium of clay. Her worldly experiences, having lived in cities such as Istanbul, Brussels, Montreal, and Munich, provide a rich tapestry of cultural influences that infuse her work with depth and diversity. Boyan’s fascination with natural materials and historical artifacts further enriches her designs, resulting in pieces that evoke both nostalgia and contemporary relevance.
The Monumental Collection transforms the grandeur and elegance of ancient architecture into bold and striking modern lighting designs. Each piece reflects Boyan’s deep appreciation for cultural heritage and her dedication to craftsmanship. The collection features elements reminiscent of classical columns and artifacts, reimagined in ways that highlight their timeless beauty. By hand-sculpting stoneware clay, Boyan infuses each design with her distinctive touch, incorporating her signature sculpted knobs to add an organic and tactile quality to the architectural forms.
The handmade nature of the Monumental Collection is evident in every detail. Hand-brushed glazes and an oxidation firing process enhance the pieces, showcasing the beauty of imperfection that characterizes original, handcrafted artistry. Boyan’s work embodies a thoughtful dialogue between the past and present, allowing her creations to serve as a bridge between history and modern life. Through these lighting designs, she explores the interplay of the old and the new, crafting pieces that resonate with contemporary sensibilities while honoring their historical inspirations.
Boyan’s collaboration with Luminaire Authentik emphasizes the potential of design as a medium for storytelling and connection. By reviving elements of ancient architecture in a modern context, the Monumental Collection also speaks to a broader narrative of cultural appreciation and continuity. Each lighting piece is a celebration of craftsmanship and artistry, inviting viewers to reflect on the power of design to evoke emotion and memory while illuminating the spaces they inhabit.
In sum, Zeynep Boyan’s Monumental Collection stands as a striking example of how design can connect the threads of past and present. Her lighting pieces encapsulate a nuanced appreciation for history while boldly embracing modern aesthetics. The collection is an invitation to experience the transformation of classical forms into contemporary art pieces, a journey that encourages a deeper understanding of design’s role in shaping and connecting our world. For those intrigued by the enduring marriage of historical magnificence and modern innovation, the Monumental Collection offers a tangible exhibition of this dynamic.
