ABOUT THE PIECE

I made a table lamp that is inspired by a relative who, despite facing a series of disheartening challenges, tries to spread positivity and looks at the world optimistically. The lamp’s base is made of environmentally harmful materials, coal and tar, which are intended to portray the soul’s dark, pessimistic, and cynical elements. As your eyes move upward, the materials shift from coal and tar to bamboo paper and beeswax, both of which are more environmentally sustainable, until you reach the pinnacle of the lamp, which is a box of pure light. The light represents the hope and optimism that rises above the negativity and pessimism in the soul. The lamp can also be flipped upside down to portray that the soul's outlook can change instantly to have all its negativity and rigidity weighing on the positive and expansive light. I have always been enamored of people who remain positive despite negative circumstances. This gift is intended for an individual facing adversity and should be used as a reminder that the human spirit can be as dark or bright as one’s outlook allows. The recipient chooses which end of the lamp is the top.