The Pulse of Wood thematic exhibition, assembled from manufacturers of wood and massive-wood products, illuminates the strength, beauty and versatility of wood products, and invites consideration on the added value of thoughtful, quality design. The exhibition comprises designs that range from traditionals and classics to contemporary design applications today.
Organizer: Zavod Big with magazine Lesarski utrip
Venue: Slovenijales Bivanje, Dunajska 20, Ljubljana
Date: Oct. 15 - Dec. 31 2009
Wood is the materia prima, the basic element or primary material, caught in a form, a shape. It is the bearer of some type of archetype wisdom which reminds us that man is part
of nature and that we should learn how to observe it and learn from it.
The first craftsmen of wood felt this and did this intuitively. Later generations of craftsmen and artisans turned their products into works of art. Their skills and knowhow are cut into our memories just like they are into the wooden masterpieces they produce, defining us, remaining part of us, our identity and acting as a reflection of our lives.
This is why we should be able to recognize their work, understand it and embrace it, as it bears testimony to who we are and what we know. But that’s not enough. We must also show what we want and can do ourselves for society and our descendants. Works of modern designers
must reflect their bond to the world and the material they draw on in their work, in addition to the creativity they are expected to produce. A modern designer must be socially responsible, environmentally conscious, and look to provide quality of living while mitigating climatic changes in creating his work.
A modern designer breathes and beats with the times. And if he has decided to craft his design in wood, this nature and environmentally friendly material, he is surely on the right path.
Wooden products designed by modern Slovenian designers are timeless, despite the overriding prevalence of electronics and artificial materials – they flirt with the past, they conquer us with their relevance to the present, and surprise us with their glimpses into the future. They can be a result of elementary, primary craft techniques or hightech solutions. In any case, they also express the power of the designer next to the power of form, including his nature and the clarity of thought. They contribute a great deal to Slovenian design and raise the benchmark of Slovenian products.
If wood is the materia prima, the primary material, then a wooden product that features designer craftsmanship can be called the materia secunda, or crafted material. The relationship between them generates an experience of harmonious pulsation which calms us, providing us with a sensation of warmth, safety and beauty.
Text: Maja Cerar
