Fading Away: A Captivating Hand Ornament by Dongguan GAFA C&C Insitute

Expressing the Ephemeral Nature of Dreams

Inspired by the evanescent nature of dreams, "Fading Away" is a unique piece of art jewelry that explores the concept of consciousness and the transience of dreams. The design features a heart-shaped structure intricately woven with fine lines, symbolizing blood vessels. The heart, traditionally associated with emotions and consciousness, represents the dream itself. The metal meshing, partially replaced with transparent material, signifies emptiness and the moment when a dream fades away, despite our desperate attempts to hold onto it.

The realization of "Fading Away" involved the use of cast copper plated with 18K gold and PVC pipe. The combination of these materials creates a visually striking contrast, enhancing the piece's artistic appeal. With dimensions of 140mm-100mm-80mm, the hand ornament is designed to be both wearable and visually captivating.

Interacting with "Fading Away" is an immersive experience. The wearer's hand intertwines with the heart-shaped structure, transforming the act of capturing a dream into a tangible reality. This unique interaction allows both the wearer and the viewer to appreciate the artistry and mystery behind the design.

The project, led by Dongguan GAFA C&C Insitute, commenced in February 2018 and concluded in June 2018 in Guangzhou, China. The finished piece was exhibited at the Art Museum of Guangzhou Academy of Fine Art in July 2018, captivating art enthusiasts with its thought-provoking concept and exquisite craftsmanship.

Creating "Fading Away" presented several challenges for the design team. Selecting a representational form to express the ephemeral nature of dreams required extensive discussions and research. To achieve the intricate interlacing space within the design, the team utilized 3D printing to create a prototype, which was then cast using traditional methods.

"Fading Away" has received widespread recognition for its innovative design. In 2019, it was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Jewelry, Eyewear, and Watch Design category. This prestigious accolade is bestowed upon designs that exhibit outstanding creativity, resourcefulness, and technical skill, contributing to improvements in quality of life.

Dongguan GAFA C&C Insitute's "Fading Away" is a testament to the power of design in capturing intangible concepts and emotions. It serves as a reminder of the ephemeral nature of dreams and the importance of cherishing the fleeting moments that make life extraordinary.