Familiar and Unfamiliar: A Clockwork World of Moving Objects

Exploring the True Meaning of Daily Objects

Yang Song believes that objects have lives and souls. In his project "Familiar and Unfamiliar," he recreates the daily objects of our memories in a dramatic and humorous way. Each piece in the collection is equipped with clockwork mechanisms, making them familiar yet unfamiliar, lifelike in a fairytale dream or memory.

The interaction between conscious action and unexpected results is controlled by an iconic element—the key of the clockwork device. When the key is rotated, the objects move in unexpected ways, providing a brand new recognition of objects we thought we knew. This unique feature challenges our understanding of functionality and invites us to reconsider the personalities of both the objects and ourselves.

The making process of these objects involves a combination of various materials and techniques. From metal manufacturing to woodmaking, from electric mechanisms to silicone injection, each piece is carefully crafted by hand in the workshop of Goldsmiths. The attention to detail and craftsmanship ensures that these objects not only move but also captivate with their intricate design.

The collection includes a clock, a chair, a speaker, and a table lamp. The clock measures 60cm x 60cm x 180cm, the chair 50cm x 60cm x 88cm, the speaker 40cm x 40cm x 100cm, and the table lamp 20cm x 20cm x 30cm. These dimensions make them suitable for various spaces, adding a touch of whimsy and intrigue to any room.

Yang Song's "Familiar and Unfamiliar" collection was exhibited at the London Design Festival in 2014. The project started in June 2014 and was completed in September 2014. It is a result of extensive research, combining theoretical concepts from philosophers such as Heidegger and Lacan with practical skills and experimentation.

This innovative design project has been recognized with the Bronze A' Design Award in the Fine Arts and Art Installation Design category. The award celebrates designs that showcase creativity, resourcefulness, and technical expertise, contributing to improvements in quality of life and making the world a better place.

Step into the clockwork world of "Familiar and Unfamiliar" and rediscover the true meaning of daily objects. Let these moving furniture pieces spark your imagination and challenge your perceptions in a whimsical and thought-provoking way.