Available as an artist-edition item, SCOPO was developed by founder David Weeks during his sixth-month fellowship at the American Academy in Rome. True to the ethos of the studio’s signature extravagant minimalism, SCOPO utilizes a combination of descending, interlocking hooks to create the fixture’s sleek, spine-like curvature. Made of just a few interlocking components, and incorporated with jewel-like details, the work extends 13 feet, cascading gracefully down from the ceiling to the floor.
The work is a product of instinct, crafted first from the immediate materials available on hand. “Arriving in Rome, I unpacked two boxes with minimal materials from the Brooklyn studio. I had the majority of what I needed to develop the prototype,” recounts Weeks. “I always begin a design idea as an open-ended process, developing it with my hands. I began by bending thin pieces of metal into hooks like jewelry, and cutting paper into forms. I wrapped these around small flashlights I found in a local hardware store. Once assembled, the piece came alive with a twisting motion, casting light like a primitive disco ball.” comments Weeks.
With the final piece housing 14 individual light sources that project soft spotlights onto the surrounding walls, SCOPO creates a mesmerizing, interactive experience for the viewer. The pendant is composed of thin brass sheets and is further embellished with distinctive details, such as a custom plum bob with a built-in level filled with 35-year-old whiskey.
