Draw a star, 2024
White paper, pencils, star-shaped string lights
Dimensions:
L20 x W20 x H20 cm
Photographed by Max Zhu
Draw a star is an artistic lighting design project that transforms everyday objects into a poetic representation of light and form. The project was developed as part of the Royal College of Art (RCA) assignment Out of Context, which encourages reimagining familiar items in innovative ways.
Max chose the simplest and most ordinary pencil as the starting point, inspired by the act of drawing on white paper. This imagery of simplicity and innocence became the foundation of the design. To avoid using intrusive methods like nails for assembly, he created a small hook at the end of each pencil by shaving it, allowing the white paper to be naturally and securely attached. This approach not only maintained the minimalist aesthetic but also strengthened the connection between pencil and paper.
Star-shaped string lights were woven into the structure, remaining hidden when the lamp was off. Once illuminated, the lights gently shone through the translucent paper, evoking the feeling of stars drawn on a blank canvas. The interplay between light, paper, and pencil created a nostalgic and poetic experience.
