Henrik Vibskov Unveils Striking Installation at Copenhagen Design Festival

A new installation by designer Henrik Vibskov made a bold statement at the Copenhagen Design Festival, held from March 14 to March 16, 2024. The artwork, named Circle Dome Square, pays homage to the iconic Panthella lamp created by Verner Panton in 1971, while presenting a fresh and innovative perspective.

Located outside the Louis Poulsen showroom, the installation features vibrant red fabric panels that radiate from a central core, resembling a giant flower in mid-bloom. This striking visual can be seen from considerable distances, drawing in passersby from blocks away. Upon entering, visitors experience a serene atmosphere that contrasts sharply with the bustling city outside. The soft red glow filters through the textile walls, creating a calming space for reflection and relaxation.

Vibskov designed the installation as a sanctuary, offering an escape from the fast-paced environment of Copenhagen. He has described his work as a convergence of shapes and colors that evoke the aesthetics of vintage cameras. This intentional focus allows visitors to immerse themselves in the experience, with the enveloping light enhancing the warmth of the surroundings.

The choice of textiles is particularly significant, reflecting Vibskov’s extensive background in fashion, art, and spatial design. The fabric panels are more than mere decoration; they actively filter sound and light, establishing an intimate atmosphere within the larger urban landscape. The engineering behind the installation is undoubtedly complex, yet the outcome appears effortless, showcasing Vibskov’s skill and vision.

The timing of the installation coincides with the 3daysofdesign festival, which has emerged as a platform for heritage brands to take creative risks. Rather than opting for a conventional approach, Louis Poulsen’s collaboration with Vibskov signals a recognition that lighting design transcends the mere creation of lamps. The installation’s canal-side location encourages organic encounters with the artwork, allowing visitors to discover it naturally as they navigate the area.

Circle Dome Square extends the legacy of the Panthella lamp while introducing a novel artistic interpretation. Vibskov’s design retains elements of Panton’s original curves and proportions but transforms them through innovative material and spatial choices. The result is a multifaceted installation that functions not only as art but also as a meditative space, demonstrating Louis Poulsen’s commitment to pushing creative boundaries.

This project exemplifies the exciting potential for collaborations between brands and talented designers. When given the freedom to innovate, designers like Vibskov can honor design history while also propelling it into the future. The Circle Dome Square stands as a testament to the power of spatial storytelling, inviting visitors to engage with design in new and memorable ways. As this trend continues, more installations like this could redefine how we experience design in urban settings.