Events: Linear

For Melbourne Design Week 2023, we developed a series of experimental works that focus primarily on the potential of pleating in a contemporary context. Linear is an exhibition and short film posing two questions; What is the value of our local artisan industry? And what stands to be lost when these industries are no longer viable?

A collection of contemporary pleated linen wall light sculptures and floor lamps with timber base and warm glow, standing upright against a plain background.
A contemporary pleated linen floor lamps with timber base and warm glow
A collection of contemporary pleated linen floor lamps with timber base and warm glow, standing upright against a plain background.

In an effort to highlight the history and legacy of Specialty Pleaters, an almost century-old pleating factory, the pieces explore various systems of clamping, hanging, and pinning pleats to create lighting sculptures. Combining pleated linen with reclaimed timber, the material contrast emphasises the delicate, nuanced, and ephemeral nature of pleating. Inspired by modernist architecture, the interface between materials, and ceremony, these lights offer a warm glow, much the same as a glimpse through a window at dusk.

Linear short film 'Explorations in Pleating', video by Silky Jazz Films

Accompanying the works in LINEAR is a short, documentary-style film sharing Coco Flip’s collaborative approach to working alongside local makers and taking inspiration from their traditional methods of production. The film, produced by Silky Jazz Films, reveals the creative process, the beauty in industry, and shares a deeper insight into the history of Melbourne's last remaining pleating factory.

Timber and pleated linen floor lamp and wall lights on a white background. They have a warm glow.
The triangular top of a timber and pleated linen floor lamp.
Three timber and pleated linen floor lamps with tall, skinny legs on a white background. They have a warm glow.
A detail of the top of a timber and pleated linen wall lamp which has a warm glow

Special thanks to Simon Zdraveski, Antuong Nguyen, Sean Brickhill, John Beckwith, Pitimati Nimmanheminda, and Marsha Golemac for their valued contributions.

Images by Pier Carthew

three floor lamps on a plinth and three wall lights hanging on the wall behind. All made with a timber frame and pleated linen.
A table lamp on a plinth and a floor lamp with a timber structure and pleated linen frames
A detail of the bottom of a pleated linen and timber wall light
A detail of a pleated linen table lamp with a timber frame
Wall lights and floor lamps with timber frames and pleated linen diffusers

Linear pieces can be customised and made to order on request. Please reach out to see what's possible.

Explore our Linear CollectionContact us

Linear Opening Event

Images by Sarah Forgie

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A collection of contemporary pleated linen light sculptures with a timber base, standing upright against a plain background.

Linear

  • Lighting

A limited-edition series of light sculptures made from pleated linen and timber.