Campfire
Campfire is an installation design for the Wayhome Music & Arts Festival 2016, the design won 2nd place during the competition. The project was completed with my team including Sylvia Chen, Tina Peng, Mark Liu, and Iris Ho.
Our concept is inspired by the idea of people gathering around a campfire. Being a large celebration of music and arts, Wayhome can relate to many representations of campfires; because it symbolizes energy, passion, unity and relationships from physical human connections. This interactive installation we are proposing is designed to be functional and to achieve a compelling narrative.
The idea of Campfire
In this installation, Wayhomies are unconsciously lured to complete our art piece. Emotions from the festival will echo within the Campfire creating exciting interactions between enthusiasts; this will fulfil our intention of wanting people to share their experiences.
Our installation is presented as multiple inclined, triangular structures with one central fulcrum beam. The beam allows the structure to see-saw back and forth with the pulling motion from a person at the apex. Furthermore, the fulcrum beam is also a sitting platform. As the image shows, the people are directed outwards, facing the massive event crowds. This encourages more participants to gather and feel welcomed towards the “campfire”.
Movement Of Structure
This animation illustrates the structure’s dynamic aspect. The structure can go from facing outwards towards the open field or vice-versa; facing at the other structures.
Scale Model & The Details of the Design
Facing inwards: Allow people to interact with others
Facing outwards: to the event ground
Shading
Twine will create shade but in the meantime remain air circulation and inviting. Different angles create dynamic shadows and makes structure more interesting.
Fabrication Process
Here are the steps of how the joint was made, Step 1: Using the 3D printed model to cost the mold. Step 2: Taking out the model carefully. Step 3: Placing the metal joints to the mold. Step 4: Secure the mold and fill it with the dragon skin silicone.
Step 5: After the casting process, the metal joint will be moulded with silicone. The final step is to insert the wood dowels (One structure need 4 joints to secure 6 wood dowels.)
The wooden dowel that is connected to the bench will be held by a foam noodle that will provide friction and reduce the damage that might be caused by attrition of the woods. In addition, there will be various wood panels inside to give weight to the bench and to secure the wooden dowel and foam noodle.
1:1 Scale Prototype Test
1. “Second Place Winners”, OCADU, https://www2.ocadu.ca/news/ocad-u-students-win-first-and-second-place-at-interior-design-show, 27 Jan. 2017.