Cardboard has consistently inspired me to create artworks that have been cherished by my benevolent clients. And one such artwork which I designed recently is the reception table. Unlike its
present form, the shape of the table was initially inspired by ginger. However, after studying its response to the surrounding space, I felt it was necessary to alter the design. Redesigning, followed and led to the inception of its present form which is inspired by folds of flowing fabric.
My tryst with fabric folds transpired in my college days when as a student I drew live sketches in the studio. In the studio, the seating was draped in a white cloth and a model was made to sit
on it. This arrangement entailed the formation of folds in the flowing fabric and I just loved to render those folds.
Years later this affinity landed up in my artworks including the reception table. The creation of this shape began with a few sketches followed by mockups designed using clay and thin cardboard. The final product was created using a chemically treated virgin cardboard. To replicate the unevenness of the folds, the raw material was cut and carefully assembled together.
‘FABRICated Tales’ – Cardboard Reception Table
The assembly of cardboard slats is a tricky affair and even a minor error stands to alter the entire story. Hence this road has to be tread very carefully. Thankfully my years of experience with
the medium helps me tide over it. Even though the challenges of working with cardboard are umpteen, the end result brings a smile across my face.
The story of the reception table too concluded in a similar way. When it was placed in the client’s office, the spatial relationship is formed with the existing space was that of harmony. And that more than anything else offered me a creative gratification which is truly priceless!