Beacon, Development

The world is unreliable. After Hurricane Sandy ravaged the northeastern coast of the United States, millions of people were left without power in New York City. The blackout was challenging for urban city dwellers not accustomed to darkness and utter silence. Beacon is a light source that can be used singularly or in pairs. Part flash light, part camp fire in an urban environment, Beacon helps those without city lights or electricity to find their way individually, or gather collective warmth in pairs, or groups.

Beacon performs as a constellation looking forward for solutions or new territories, but also serves as a reminder us of where we come from in our collective search for being illuminated, and joining together for safety. The beacon seeks to be useful as an everyday passive object but urgently practical and deployable in three distinct ways.

I’m working with Jason on this project, so we will each be constructing our own “sides” of the Beacon. While I’m working on some sketches, I have a clear idea of the aesthetic and materials that I want to work with.

Like this place:

With these forms:

Sketches: