Rattan is a material that is native and of high importance to the Southeast Asian region. Rattan furniture and household items were commonplace in the homes of Singapore in the 70s. However, its qualities have been replaced by solutions of the modern world: lightness and durability by plastic, pliability by rubber bands, and airiness by the accessibility of air conditioners.
By learning from the past and coupled with inspirations from other disciplines and mediums, this research with rattan attempts to exhaust the material through exploring its potential in aesthetics and function.
By learning from the past and coupled with inspirations from other disciplines and mediums, this research with rattan attempts to exhaust the material through exploring its potential in aesthetics and function.
Rattan studies
Rattan as Weave
OngoingHow many ways are there to weave with rattan?Rattan as Weave continues my exploration of the material — this time through the act of weaving.
︎ Current progress 18/100
Rattan as Wrap
Completed in 2021How many ways are there to wrap an object?
Rattan as Wrap studies the fundamentals of rattan through the act of wrapping — I liken it to learning the alphabets.
︎ Completed 100/100
Rattan as Wearables
2019 – ongoingHow can we use the rattan material in other ways that may fit into our time?Rattan as Wearables continues the exploration of rattan by reimagining its function and relevance today.
Rattan Combinations
2017 – ongoingHow many ways are there to weave using rattan?A body of work that explores rattan in conversation with other materials. The techniques gathered over the course of the weave and wrap research manifest as tangible forms — a visual and tactile investigation into rattan.
