Creating an ambiance that heals you internally and externally
Design Intent
Inspiration
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I discovered the versatility, shape, and malleability of copper through my research. My goal was to create an ambient atmosphere that diffuses light in a way that feels tranquil and calming. By carefully controlling the quality and distribution of light, the design promotes relaxation while remaining visually engaging. The integration of copper enhances both the material expression and the light-filtering qualities of the piece.
The Belt of Venus is a soft pink band of light that appears above the horizon during sunrise and sunset. This natural phenomenon is created when sunlight scatters through the atmosphere, producing warm hues that diffuse across the sky.
I was inspired by the unspoken reactions and sense of community that emerge when people experience a sunrise or sunset together. I particularly think of the power of Manhattanhenge, where the setting or rising sun aligns with the city, almost stopping the rush this city is known for. There is a noticeable shift in atmosphere that this natural light provokes.
Material Exploration
![Bubble Wrap Created textured shadows that resembled water, but lacked warmth of light.]()
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Dichroic
High intensity vibrance through sunset-like colors, felt too artificial.
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In my eyes, Copper captured the warmth and atmospheric quality of the Belt of Venus. Unlike the other materials, copper both filters and reflects light, producing rich amber tones that resemble the gradual color transitions seen during sunrise and sunset. Its malleability allowed me to create organic forms that interact with light in dynamic ways.
Furthering my research, I found that the quality of light created by the diffused copper material offers notable wellness advantages.
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-Helps lower cortisol naturally, allowing your body to release melatonin and rest easier.
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-Hypoallergenic material that does not exit toxins or collect dust.
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-Lasts decades and be recycled, melted and repurposed over time.
Bubble Wrap
Created textured shadows that resembled water, but lacked warmth of light.
Dichroic
High intensity vibrance through sunset-like colors, felt too artificial. 
Cotton Fabric
Created a soft, gentle glow but overly dimmed the light.
Copper Mesh ︎
Reflected and diffused light enough that the room still brightly lit.Wellness Benefits
Wellness Benefits
In my eyes, Copper captured the warmth and atmospheric quality of the Belt of Venus. Unlike the other materials, copper both filters and reflects light, producing rich amber tones that resemble the gradual color transitions seen during sunrise and sunset. Its malleability allowed me to create organic forms that interact with light in dynamic ways.
Furthering my research, I found that the quality of light created by the diffused copper material offers notable wellness advantages.
Circadian Flow & Stress Reduce
-Ambient warm light minimizes exposure to harsh light at night.-Helps lower cortisol naturally, allowing your body to release melatonin and rest easier.
Antimicrobial & Non-Toxic
-Copper naturally resists and kills any bacteria, viruses, and fungi on contact.-Hypoallergenic material that does not exit toxins or collect dust.
Recyclable & Long-Lasting
-Highly resistant to corrosion, rust, and temperature fluctuations.-Lasts decades and be recycled, melted and repurposed over time.
Form Development
I wanted the form to be just as dynamic as the concept of the Belt of Venus. In my earlier iterations, I explored different fabric-like sustainable materials to capture the organic embodiment of my structure. Copper mesh had the most malleable skelatal form and even emulated the pinkish hue naturally. I integrated veneer wood to better establish the relationship between the sky (copper mesh) and earth (fragile wood).
How the Material tells the story
The Belt of Venus symbolizes the Girdle of Aphrodite, which belonged to Venus. The painting above shows this belt in motion as Goddess Juno delicately holds it as it drapes. The hues of pink in the painting are saturated in a way that embraces femininity. Copper as a material is both delicate and resiliant. This narrative inspired the structure of a female figure in motion, allowing the copper mesh to refract against the amber light.
Process
The sole focus was to make copper the star of the show, with wooden accents acting as reinforcements. The copper mesh holds its form with copper pipes, which contain hidden wires for the lighting. To piece the mesh, I used copper wires to stitch each layer, allowing the draping motion through every fold and molding of the copper mesh. The imperfections and attention to detail are meant to embrace femininity through the design.
Final Luminaire
