James Heeley

James Heeley

Perfumer & Designer – Paris
www.jamesheeley.com

Bicycle stand / table / stool

Limited Edition: 3
32 x 29 x 45 cm
burnt oak, engraved silver

A section of sealed, burnt oak, cut to hold a bicycle wheel is transformed into a bicycle stand that can be used in an open space as simple stool or an occasional table. A polished silver plaque bears an inscription and date.

Sections of trees are frequently used as stools in wood cutters cabin's through to modern, designed interiors. Yet despite a familiar air of simplicity, the ubiquitous 'tree stump' stool is too heavy and impractical to be considered a pure design piece. However, in this instance, the excessive weight of a square section of solid oak is rendered coherent and functional by a single, definitive cut, while the secondary, traditional functions for use as a small table or stool remain unhindered. A lighter piece of the same dimensions, intended for use as a bicycle stand would be deemed to failure. The burnt oak finish draws our attention to ecological issues and emphasizes one of the reasons that the bicycle is as relevant now as it has ever been. It might be considered a reminder, a memento mori of the natural world, or on the other hand, a positive statement about how aesthetics and functional design are relevant to contemporary, everyday living.

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Andreas Murkudis

“I am what I am
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