Francesca Schiavello

Pleated paper geometries

• Francesca uses a special paper from Japan
• She is fascinated by how artificial light can transform a room
• Her creations are influenced by the exactness of origami art

“I made my first lamps for a flat I had just moved into when I was living in Switzerland,” explains London-based Francesca Schiavello. “Being an architect, I was familiar with building scale models using different materials, so the idea of using paper came to me quite naturally.” Fascinated by paper’s three-dimensionality and the way in which it diffuses light, the budding artisan started to produce lampshades on request, engaging in a relentless search for new shapes. “The making of these paper sculptures, which are pleated and folded as an origami, offered me the opportunity to explore how to shape light in a personal way. I also experiment with different geometries that generate a metamorphosis of the lamp itself, depending on the angle from which it is observed.”

Interview

©Dhananjeya Kumaar

©Francesca Schiavello

Where do you draw the ideas for your lamps?

From a careful study of organic and non-organic geometric solids. Sometimes the folds are inspired by the draping of a dress and the shadows it generates. Through skillful folding I then transfer this volumetric design into a paper sculpture.

How do you integrate tradition and innovation?

By combining the manual act of folding paper with the production of computer-aided preliminary miniature models, for example. Or by using LED bulbs, thanks to which I have been able to create closed shapes to obtain more subtle light effects.

What aspect of your work often surprises people?

Each lamp involves different folding methods that require practical knowledge and experience. For this reason, I keep a notebook in which I enter all the important details and techniques I use for every shape I develop.

What do you enjoy most about being an artisan?

Working with my hands is a form of meditation, which requires patience, precision and dedication. When I am creating, I withdraw momentarily from the world and focus on the technique. But the best part is when my work makes my customers happy.

Francesca Schiavello is a rising star: she began her career in 2018

Works

©Enea Arienti

©Enea Arienti

©Enea Arienti

Where