Reimagining the source of light as a sculpture
Gweilo is a new collection of architectural lights by PARTISANS. Inspired by the idea that light itself could be harnessed and manipulated to create a physical sculpture, PARTISANS developed a design that alters light at its source. As spectral sculptures that fold and bend like light rays themselves, Gweilo functions as accents, dividers, or centrepieces, gracefully delineating space to create an ethereal atmosphere. As an entire family of floor and table luminaires, Gweilo is scalable, offering significant potential for commercial and hospitality projects in addition to its obvious residential applications.
“We have been trying to create light that is light itself … this is about getting as close to the source as possible. Can light be a moving object? Why can’t light pool, drip, or drape?” — Alex Josephson Co-founder of PARTISANS
Each Gweilo light is handmade using thermoforming, a technique that allows etched optical grade acrylic sheets to be custom-shaped while they are still in their hot plastic state. The sheets are heated to just under 400 degrees Celcius, at which point they become molten and pliable. They are immediately removed from the heat source and sculpted to produce a variety of distinct folds and curves. When the metal extrusion containing an embedded LED strip is affixed to the cooled sheet’s edge, light is diffused across the etchings, amplifying the luminescent output. The result is an infinite set of silhouettes and sizes that emulate the vital movement of light. As spectral sculptures that fold and bend like light rays themselves, Gweilo reimagines the very way in which a light source emits luminescence to architectural effect.
As a prototype, Gweilo garnered national accolades, winning a LAMP Award in 2015 and the AZ Award for Best Lighting Installation in 2016. In 2017 the prototype becomes a full-fledge production product, designed and fabricated in Ontario by PARTISANS. It is available throughout North America and internationally through LightForm.
Purchase Gweilo
To purchase a Gweilo light, email gweilo@lightform.ca or call 1.866.526.7232. Or visit a LightForm lighting showroom to see Gweilo collection in person.
> Order before Jan 31 and enjoy special “show pricing”. Just mention GweiloIDS when you connect with us to place your order.
Specifications
XS: 12″W x 18″D x 12″H | Weight: 1.8lbs
S: 16″W x 12″D x 24″H | Weight: 3lbs
M: 18″W x 12″D x 36″H | Weight: 9lbs
L: 24″W x 18″D x 48″H | Weight: 18lbs
XL: 36″W x 24″D x 60″H | Weight: 30lbs
All Gweilo models:
- cULus listed
- Dimmable
- Colour Temperature: 2700K
- Cord Length 5′ or 8′
- Bulb: Embedded LED strip
- Voltage: 120V
Connect with us to learn more about Gweilo architectural luminaires.
Gweilo will be officially launched in Toronto at the Interior Design Show Jan 19-22. Come watch the PARTISANS crew live-form Gweilo lights along with special guests painter Steve Driscoll, architect Omar Gandhi, sculptor Harvey Valentine, and designer Tommy Smythe, at the #PARTISANSFACTORY, equal parts fabrication warehouse, artist studio, and lounge party.
Stay tuned for pictures from the Jan 18 Gweilo Launch Party at LightForm.