Quiet Shadow and Flowing Light: A Poetic Blend of Tradition and Modernity

Combining Oriental Aesthetics and Contemporary Design

The screen set draws inspiration from the lattice window elements found in classic Chinese gardens. Cong Ma has taken this traditional motif and reimagined it through the lens of modern art. The result is a collection of screens that exude a sense of tranquility and beauty, reminiscent of the serene landscapes of Chinese gardens.

What sets the Quiet Shadow and Flowing Light screen set apart is its unique combination of traditional manual double-sided embroidery and modern optical fiber technology. This innovative approach creates a dreamlike experience, where the screens transform when viewed from different angles. From the branches of winter trees to the misty valleys, each perspective offers a new and captivating view.

The screen set features various elements commonly found in Chinese gardens, such as willow branches, bamboo, and cranes. However, Cong Ma has also incorporated Western elements, including the ladybug, a symbol of luck and a messenger of the Virgin Mary. This fusion of Eastern and Western influences adds a touch of whimsy and cultural involution to the design.

The Quiet Shadow and Flowing Light screen set is not only visually stunning but also highly versatile. Each screen can be used independently or in groups, allowing for endless possibilities in creating different types of poetic beauty. The optical fiber technology enables the screens to change colors, adapting to different environmental needs. Additionally, the screens can be detached and used as table screens, expanding the space and functionality of the design.

With dimensions ranging from 900mm x 1600mm to 1300mm x 1150mm, the Quiet Shadow and Flowing Light screen set offers a variety of sizes to suit different spaces and preferences. Whether used as a floor screen or a combo screen, this design adds a touch of elegance and serenity to any environment.

The project, which began in December 2017 in Nanjing, China, was completed in February 2018. The Quiet Shadow and Flowing Light screen set will be exhibited at the Triennale di Milano in April 2018, showcasing its unique blend of tradition and modernity to a global audience.

Cong Ma's design is not only visually captivating but also carries a deeper message. As a designer, Cong Ma believes in the responsibility of preserving traditional cultural heritage while embracing contemporary design. The Quiet Shadow and Flowing Light screen set is a testament to this belief, bringing the beauty of traditional Chinese gardens to the public in a modern and innovative form.

The creation of the Quiet Shadow and Flowing Light screen set was not without its challenges. Cong Ma had to find a way to interpret the classical Chinese landscape using the visual language of modern art. Additionally, the integration of traditional handicraft with contemporary spirit and the use of modern technologies like optical fibers presented creative and technical hurdles. The designer also had to carefully consider how to utilize the combination of screens and single screens in different occasions to maximize their impact.

A combination of ancient grace and modern vogue, the Quiet Shadow and Flowing Light screen set is not only a functional piece of art but also a symbol of the dialectical relations between "virtuality and actuality" and "activity and tranquility" in Chinese culture. It is a testament to the designer's skill and creativity, earning the Quiet Shadow and Flowing Light screen set the Bronze A' Design Award in the Furniture Design category in 2018.

With its blend of tradition and modernity, the Quiet Shadow and Flowing Light screen set is a true masterpiece that showcases the beauty and sophistication of Chinese design. It serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving cultural heritage while embracing innovation, creating a harmonious balance between the past and the present.