Cynthia Chan
Singapore
Cynthia believes that design is rooted in drawing inspiration from everyday experiences—through conversations, objects, or places. Often drawn to creating designs that are more experimental, she tends to approach projects with a sense of ambiguity and curiosity, with each project dappling between utility and playfulness. In some instances, the outcome of her work is simply a record of the creative process itself, while other times, it results in tangible, commercial products.
Through her designs, Cynthia tries to aim to communicate that design can be functional, beautiful, and meaningful—not just in the objects we create but also in the ideas they represent.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/______ch___an_?igsh=MWJ2YnF1bXd2OTlkdQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
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Project Description:
This project is set through the lens of material perception, urging viewers to reconsider their perceptions of worth through an exploration of unconventional materials. Anchored in the central theme of EMERGE 2024, this project delves into the multifaceted dimensions of value—its origins, arbiters, and interpretations—through the unconventional medium of metal cable ties.
In a world saturated with commodification and excess,The Tied Stool challenges viewers to reevaluate their relationship with materiality and consumption. By harnessing metal cable ties as both medium and muse, the project explores the inherent worth embedded within overlooked materials, inviting contemplation on the subjective nature of value determination.
Through a process of weaving, typically reserved for textiles, metal cable ties are transformed into bespoke furniture pieces that transcend their utilitarian origins, embodying a narrative of resilience and reinvention. The Tied Stool is more than a mere showcase of craftsmanship; each creation serves as a tangible manifestation of the evolving concept of value—a testament to the transformative power of human ingenuity and perception.
By challenging preconceived notions and expanding the boundaries of material value, the piece seeks to provoke dialogue, inspire introspection, and catalyze meaningful change in our collective perception of value.
Through EMERGE 2024, I hope to invite viewers to embark on a journey of discovery, exploring the nuances of value in all its forms and forging new connections between materiality, meaning, and the human experience.
