blocks lamps

blocks lamps by rio chen studio

The series "Blocks" by Rio Chen explores the symbolism of cubes and boxes as reflections of life's transient nature and the value of time. Inspired by constant movement and relocation between Taiwan, Chicago, and New York, the work delves into the act of packing, shifting, and reassessing belongings—highlighting the physical and emotional weight of these 'blocks' in our lives.

The centerpiece of this collection is a series of table lamps, resembling a city block when assembled. The structured forms, created with a combination of wood bases and textured surfaces, evoke urban architecture and pixelated grids, embodying the modular essence of blocks. These designs suggest both stability and fluidity, as though each piece captures a frozen moment of assembly or transition.

Accompanying the lamps is a series of hand-printed artworks, created using wooden blocks and mulberry paper. The grain textures transferred through acrylic paint create a tactile connection to time's passage, merging the natural patterns of wood with human-made impressions. Together, these works present an object-oriented narrative that contemplates how blocks—whether as obstacles, pixels, or cherished possessions—shape our perception of value, place, and memory within the continuum of time.

arena lamp

8.00x8.00x8.00 in
mulberry paper, steel, and white oak
E26/E27 socket, G16 bulb x1

house lamp

4.75x4.75x8.00 in
mulberry paper, steel, and white oak
E26/E27 socket, G16 bulb x1

tower lamp
custom made

4.75x4.75x13.50 in
mulberry paper, steel, and white oak
E26/E27 socket, G16 bulb x1

library lamp
custom made

6.00x11.00x6.75 in
mulberry paper, steel, and white oak
E26/E27 socket, G16 bulb x2

pyramid lamp
custom made

9.00x9.00x7.00 in
mulberry paper, steel, and white oak
E26/E27 socket, G16 bulb x1