Limited Edition of 25
Floor Light, Carbon Fibre, Aluminium, Fiber Optic Cable, LED, 2017
L: W25cm x L200cm x H190cm, S: W18cm x L100cm x H95cm
The Parabola Paradiso is IL Hoon Roh’s finely crafted interpretation of the parabolic curves and arches found in nature. Made of interweaving fiber optic cables, parabolic curves that float like hanging chandeliers are paired with freestanding parabolic arches that display the lightness and strength of carbon fibre. The result is a juxtaposition and interplay of form and function that becomes a microcosm of the inherent beauty and harmony found in the natural world.
To create the flow of the parabolic curves, the artist took strands of fiber optic cable of varying lengths, first distributing weights to each cable and then positioning and interweaving each strand to create the larger effect of the floating parabolic curves. A similar process was used to create the parabolic arches from carbon fibre. Experimenting with the effect of weights on the material, IL Hoon first created a hanging parabolic curve that was then hardened and re-positioned to create a mirrored parabolic arch. The strength of the hardened carbon fibre allowed the artist to group multiple freestanding arches of varying size to complement the fiber optic cable chandeliers. Lights powered by LEDs are interwoven into the mounting and parabolic curves and arches through optic fiber cables, illuminating the entire set. To prevent the LED lights from burning out, the artist used computer simulation by Altair which calculated the air flow and heat conduction of the LEDs. The overall result is a stunning and moving visual synthesis of technology, industry, and artistry that elicits the awe of experiencing the optimal design and structure of the natural world.
