The Art of Design Issue 40 2019 | Page 103

103 MADE YOU LOOK - MADE YOU CARE What's the point of a pretty looking chair if the world's falling apart? I believe design should go beyond the superficial. It should embody a message; it should engage and empower us to make a difference in our world. Above all, it should be fun. I am a British Furniture designer creating pieces that highlight causes close to my heart through contemporary design. The Flutter Light is inspired by the decline of British butterflies. These pollinators are extremely important to the world’s food source and humanity. Focusing on protecting the butterfly, my design was inspired by a chain link metal fence, wire mesh and hand stitched barb wire decoration to create these pieces. The contrast between the harsh cold metal and the delicate colourful patterns highlights the threat these beautiful butterflies face. In contrast I drew inspiration for The Jackpot Fruit Bowl from the classic fruit machine. The design gives the impression of fruit spinning around to eventually land on the jackpot. I have incorporated all the fruit machine favourites in a playful minimalist format. The Fold Clock was inspired by me playing around with paper torn from my sketchbook and folding it in various shapes and forms. The simple symmetry of the piece creates a modern, clean look. I incorporated the torn holes from my sketchbook, which not only add a decorative element to the design but an ideal solution for hanging the clock to the wall or free standing. Manufactured in powder coated steel to resemble the visual lightness of paper with the strength of steel. Included with every clock is a chinagraph pencil so you can doodle away on the clocks surface. All of my designs are manufactured in Britain using only metal to champion the declining steel industry. www.helenmiddletonstudio.co.uk [email protected] 07809473242