Aquafil Econyl x Parsons MFA Textile
TEXTILE ILLUMINATION
This project is a collaboration between Aquafil USA and Parsons MFA Textiles. For the third consecutive year, Aquafil has challenged MFA Textiles students to create unique designs and textiles using Econyl regenerated nylon. This year's focus was on lighting design. The three finalists of this lighting design challenge will showcase their innovative lighting installations at the NEOCON shows in Chicago.
“Echoes of Light" is an innovative lighting design that draws inspiration from the concept of "echo" to create a captivating and immersive experience through the interplay of double cloth weaving techniques on a loom. This unique design will utilize environmentally conscious Econyl yarns, dyed with natural pigments, to weave a narrative that combines traditional craftsmanship with contemporary sustainability. The concept of "echo" serves as the guiding metaphor for this lighting installation, symbolizing the reverberation of light in both a physical and metaphorical sense.
Echoes of Light (FINALIST)
PROCESS
Material Selection:
Econyl yarns, derived from regenerated nylon, will be the primary medium for this project. These sustainable yarns, crafted from recycled materials like discarded fishing nets and other nylon waste, align with the project's commitment to environmental responsibility. The yarns will be naturally dyed using plant-based pigments, introducing a subtle and organic color palette that complements the theme of sustainability.
Weaving Technique:
The double cloth weaving technique will be employed to create a layered and textured effect, allowing for the manipulation of light and shadow. This intricate process will mirror the complexities of echoes, as they bounce, overlap, and intertwine in a mesmerizing manner. The resulting fabric will be both visually rich and tactile, inviting viewers to engage with the interwoven patterns.
Lighting Integration:
The woven fabric will serve as a dynamic canvas for the integration of LED lighting elements. Strategic placement of these lights within the fabric will highlight the double cloth patterns, creating a play of light and shadow reminiscent of the echoes bouncing within a space. The result is a visually stunning and environmentally conscious lighting installation.
This lighting is designed keeping in mind modern consumer needs and adaptability. It was woven as a single piece on a floor loom using the double cloth weaving technique. No sewing was involved to finish this piece. It came off the loom as a cylinder.
Each section houses a bulb and allows the user to adjust the light intensity and create a brighter or darker ambiance by controlling the illumination of each section. Users can light one section at a time up to the final one and experiment with both warm and cool lights.
Both pieces are sustainably designed, embodying the brand's mission of circular design.
Excited to share that my Textile Luminaire 💡, "Echoes of Light," has been selected as one of the three finalists at the Necon Shows in Chicago! 📍
A Lighting Design Collaboration between Aquafil Econyl X Parsons MFA Textile
ECONYL® brand , Parsons School of Design - The New School
Looking forward to connecting with fellow innovators and design enthusiasts.
Textile luminaire installation at the Neocon Shows , Chicago , Illinois
