Cava: A Captivating Light Installation Inspired by Cave Formations

An Exploration of Organic Patterns and Mathematical Design

This project is a testament to the wonders of nature and the endless possibilities of design. Guan's inspiration for Cava came from her fascination with cave formations and the diverse patterns found within them. Exploring the organic and iterative process of cave generation, she sought to capture the essence of these formations and translate them into a visually stunning installation.

What sets Cava apart is its use of mathematical methods to visualize the intricate patterns and formations found in caves. By abstracting the relationship between cave patterns and different rocks, Guan has created a piece that not only expresses the natural formation process but also highlights the beauty of the relationship between nature and mathematics.

The realization of the Cava series involves a multi-step process. Guan begins by generating a series of images and vectors based on the analytical processes of cave formations. These shapes are then etched onto acrylic glass using a laser cutter. Finally, the etched acrylic glass, LED lights, and pedestals are assembled to create the final installation.

With its dimensions of 228mm width, 62mm depth, and 508mm height, Cava is a versatile piece that can be installed in various settings. Whether it's in a home, office, or other interior spaces, these lights add a touch of elegance and intrigue. They can be installed singularly or in different numbers, allowing for customization based on spatial requirements.

The creation of the Cava series spanned six months and took place in the vibrant San Francisco Bay Area. Guan's research for this project involved firsthand exploration of physical caves, where she marveled at the natural rock formations. This experience, combined with extensive online reading and coding explorations, laid the foundation for the mathematical formulas and values used in the design.

One of the most significant challenges Guan faced during the design process was abstracting naturally occurring visual patterns and formations into a mathematical formula. By overcoming this obstacle, she was able to create a series of vector images through computational design, transforming cave patterns into three-dimensional installations.

Yingri Guan's Cava series has garnered recognition and acclaim, including the Bronze A' Design Award in the Generative, Algorithmic, Parametric, and AI-Assisted Design category in 2020. This prestigious award celebrates designs that showcase creativity, resourcefulness, and technical skill, making a positive impact on the world and enhancing quality of life.

With Cava, Guan has successfully merged art, design, and technology to create a truly unique and captivating installation. Through her exploration of cave formations and mathematical design, she has brought the beauty of nature into our living spaces, reminding us of the wonders that surround us.