Federico Zambon

Kinilū

Lamp maker

©Sara Tramarin

Magic, plastic and light

Federico specialises in working with polystyrene
His lamps are lightweight, water resistant and fireproof
Each design is the result of a journey into a world of fantasy

Passionate about painting and drawing, Federico Zambon has found a very innovative way to express his imagination and creativity: giving light to polystyrene. In 2016, he founded Kinilū together with Chiara Scantamburlo, who collaborates in the creation of decorations, stencils, special finishes and the running of the business. "I have always been fascinated by how things work. Ever since I was a child, I have taken apart and reassembled many objects to create new ones. My first approach to art started with tattoos, but I soon realised that the human body was not the right canvas for me. The encounter with polystyrene and lighting came almost as a game, and over the course of time I have managed to understand the limits and potential of this material. I believe that what makes my lights special is their poetic unconventionality."

Interview

©Sara Tramarin

©Sara Tramarin

Why did you decide to focus on making lighting?: To merge light and art together and develop a concept that is different from everything else. I want to break away from mass-produced lighting and create something that can be customised and unique, made to deliver magic and emotions.
Is your craft tied to the region where you work?: Just the love for handcrafting connects me to this territory. Polystyrene is a material used mainly in packaging, construction and set design. Using it to make light fittings is unusual, and consequently every day is a new discovery.
Which three words define your craft?: Creative, inspiring and different. Every day we face a new challenge: products to try, objects to build. It is a constant stimulation of our intuition and imagination. It is the most wonderful job in the world.
What about your craft do people normally not know?: That it takes time. Each piece requires hours of planning, mistakes, rethinking. With every new creation you develop many new skills.

Federico Zambon is a rising star: he began his career in 2016